Obituaries from THE HAMMOND DAILY STAR, Dec. 2002; Hammond, Tangipahoa Parish, LA. Submitted to the USGenWeb Archives by Don Johnson, Jan, 2003 ************************************************ Copyright. All rights reserved. http://usgwarchives.net/copyright.htm http://usgwarchives.net/la/lafiles.htm ************************************************ December 01, 2002 * Brian Mark Secrease, 19, Ponchatoula. * Emily Lois Smith, 18, Loranger. * Ruth Kimbrough Guichard, 89, Waco, Texas. * Douglas R. Kemp Jr., 83, Covington. * Robert Doyal Brown, Sr., 73, Loranger. * Annis McKay DiMaggio, 60, Hammond. * Robert Luther McLee, 75, Hammond. * Nettie Mae Wallace, 89, Natalbany. -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- ROBERT DOYAL BROWN SR. LORANGER - Robert Doyal Brown Sr., a 73-year-old retired Merchant Marine seaman who was a native of Stanton, Miss., died Friday, Nov. 29, 2002, at his home in Loranger. He was a member of the Seafarers International. Survivors include his wife, Ida Puls Brown of Loranger; two daughters, Elizabeth Brown Orlando of Loranger and Alice Mildred Brown Smith of Sherman, Texas; a son, Robert "Bobby" D. Brown Jr., of Loranger; three sisters, Jewell Bonds of Roxie, Miss., Edna Perrin of Saluda, N.C., and Avis J. Brown of Loranger; two brothers, Edward L. Brown of Hammond and Charles W. Brown of Morgan City; seven grandchildren and six great-grandchildren. His first wife, Mildred Gates Brown, preceded him in death as did two brothers, Ollie C. Brown and Ira Cecil Brown; two sisters, Virginia Knight Mallory and Laura Tracy Allen. Visitation and the funeral were Saturday at Harry McKneely & Son Funeral Home in Hammond. The Rev. John Locascio conducted the funeral at 11 a.m., and burial was in Loranger Community Cemetery. -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- ANNIS MCKAY DiMAGGIO Annis McKay DiMaggio, 60, died Saturday, Nov. 30, 2002, at her home. She was a native of LeFlore, Miss., and resident of Hammond. Survivors include two daughters, Elizabeth Hammontree and Mary Stevens; a son, William Cherry; two brothers, Charles and Thomas McKay; seven grandchildren and four great- grandchildren. Her parents, James E. and Mary Kate Thomas McKay, and her husband, Frank "Scoline" DiMaggio, preceded her in death as did two brothers, William and James McKay. Visitation will be at Harry McKneely & Son Funeral Home, Hammond, tonight from 6 until 9 and Monday from 8 a.m. until the funeral conducted by the Rev. Dennis McKay at 11 p.m. Burial will be in Holly Gardens Cemetery. -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- RUTH KIMBROUGH GUICHARD WACO, Texas - Ruth Kim-brough Guichard, 89, died Thursday, Nov. 28, 2002, at a hospital in the Waco area. She was a native of Valley Mills, Texas, an artist and avid gardener. She was a member of the Ebenezer Baptist Church in Hammond, and attended Highland Park Baptist Church in Waco. She was a member of Harrison's Senior Center. Survivors include her son, Bob Guichard of China Spring, Texas. Her husband was the late Robert Guichard. Her daughter, Jeannette Reiders, and her parents, Henry and Nara Jaynes Kimbrough, also preceded her in death. Visitation will be at Brookview Funeral Home Chapel in Waco tonight from 6 until 8 p.m. The funeral will be Monday at 11 a.m. -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- DOUGLAS R. KEMP JR. COVINGTON - Retired Naval Officer Douglas R. Kemp, 83, died Wednesday, Nov. 27, 2002, at St. Tammany Parish Hospital. He was a native of Ponchatoula and had returned to live there after 27 years of military service. He was a veteran of World War II and a life member of the American Legion, Veterans of Foreign Wars, and numerous other military societies. Survivors include his son, Allen L. Kemp of Covington; two grandsons; and a sister, Hattie Kemp Wilson of Zolfo Springs, Fla. A son, Douglas Lucian Kemp, and his wife of 49 years, Adah Cook Kemp, preceded him in death. His body was donated to the Bureau of Anatomical Services for the advancement of medical education and research. As such, there will be no funeral. A memorial service will be planned to be held at The Windsor Senior Living Center, in Mandeville, his last place of residence. In lieu of flowers, contributions to one's favorite charity would be appreciated. -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- ROBERT LUTHER McLEE Robert Luther McLee, a retired state highway department engineer, died Friday, Nov. 29, 2002, at Lakeview Hospital in Covington. He was 75. A native of New Orleans, he resided in Hammond. He served in the U.S. Navy during World War II. Survivors include four daughters, Sherry Badon of Ponchatoula, Debbie Moore of Independence, Lori Laurent of Ponchatoula and Shana Lange of Abita Springs; a son Shawn McLee of Abita Springs; a brother, Kenneth McLee of Hammond; eight grandchildren and six great-grandchildren. His parents were the late Al and Mamie Wainwright McLee. A sister, Bernice Brown, and a brother, Ralph Rogers, also preceded him in death. Visitation will be at Harry McKneely & Son Funeral Home, Hammond, Monday night from 6 until 10. Religious services are incomplete. Burial will be in Holy Gardens in Hammond. -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- BRIAN MARK SECREASE PONCHATOULA- Brian Mark Secrease, 19, died Saturday, Nov. 30, 2002, as the result of a car accident. A native of Reserve, he was and a son of Michael and Pamela Bretz Secrease of Ponchatoula. Survivors include a brother, Chris M. Secrease of Ponchatoula, and a grandmother, Alice Brant Bretz of Alton, Ill. Grandparents Samuel Bretz and Claude and Rosemary Gibson Secrease preceded him in death. Visitation will be at Harry McKneely & Son Funeral Home, Ponchatoula, Monday night from 6 until 10 and Tuesday from 8 a.m. until the Rev. Billy Kennedy conducts the funeral at 10 a.m. Burial will be in Sand Hill Cemetery. -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- EMILY LOIS SMITH LORANGER - Emily Lois Smith, 18, died Saturday, Nov. 30, 2002, as the result of a car accident. A native and resident of Loranger, she was the daughter of Paul D. and Pam Weatherford Smith of Loranger and the granddaughter of Lois Wheeler Weatherford of Hammond. Grandparents Lonnie O. Weatherford and O.C. and Eunice Dickey Smith preceded her in death. Visitation will be at Harry McKneely & Son Funeral Home, Hammond, Monday night from 6 until 10 and Tuesday from 8 a.m. until the Rev. Larry Brignac conducts the funeral at 11 a.m. in the funeral home chapel. Burial will be in Johnson Cemetery. -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- NETTIE MAE WALLACE WALKER - Nettie Mae Wallace, an 89-year-old Walker homemaker, died Friday, Nov. 29, 2002, at Summit Hospital. She was a native of Baton Rouge, resident of Walker and member of Calvary Christian Church. Survivors include a son, L.E. Wallace Jr. of Tickfaw, and two sisters, Grace Simpson of Zachary and Lottie Chaney of Walker. Her husband, Liston E. "Buck" Wallace, and an infant son, James Earl Wallace, preceded her in death. A graveside service will be held on Monday at 11 a.m. at Roselawn Memorial Cemetery. December 02, 2002 * Rosie Dawson, 73, Tangipahoa * Robert Luther McLee, 75, Hammond * Roy Miceli Sr., 81, Independence * Lea Ella Watkins Thompson, 77, Albany -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- ROSIE DAWSON TANGIPAHOA - Rosie Dawson, 73, died Wednesday, Nov. 27, 2002, at North Oaks Medical Center, Hammond. She was a native of Kentwood. She is survived by one daughter, Rosa Lee Dawson of Tangipahoa; one sister, Maybell Wright of Baton Rouge; six brothers, Nora Dillon, John and Izell Dickerson, all of Kentwood, Alvin Brumfield of New Orleans, Percy Dillon of Magnolia, Miss.; and Willie Dickerson of Bakersfield, Calif.; four grandchildren and six great-grandchildren. She was preceded in death by her parents, B. Manie Dickerson and Lottie Brumfield; one sister, Angie Robbins; and her husband, Theodore Dawson. Visitation will be today at Richardson Funeral Home, Amite, from 5 to 8 p.m. Nathaniel Richardson will conduct the funeral Tuesday at the funeral home at 11 a.m. Burial will be in Tangipahoa Baptist Church Cemetery, Osyka, Miss. -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- ROBERT LUTHER MCLEE Robert Luther McLee, 75, died Friday, Nov. 29, 2002, at Lakeview Hospital, Covington. He was a native of New Orleans, a U.S. Navy veteran of World War II and a retired engineer from the Louisiana State Highway Department. He is survived by four daughters, Sherry Badon and Lori Laurent, both of Ponchatoula, Debbie Moore of Independence and Shana Lange of Abita Springs; one son, Shawn McLee of Abita Springs; one brother, Kenneth McLee of Hammond; eight grandchildren and six great- grandchildren. He was preceded in death by his parents, Al and Mamie Wainwright McLee; one sister, Bernice Brown; and one brother, Ralph Rogers. Visitation will be today at Harry McKneely & Son Funeral Home, Hammond, from 6 to 10 p.m. and Tuesday from 9 until 9:45 a.m. Mass will be at Holy Ghost Catholic Church, Hammond, at 10 a.m. Burial will be in Holly Gardens, Hammond. -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- ROY MICELI SR. INDEPENDENCE - Roy Miceli Sr., 81, died Sunday, Dec. 1, 2002, at North Oaks Medical Center, Hammond. He was a native of Independence. Arrangements are incomplete and will be announced by Harry McKneely & Son Funeral Home, Hammond. -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- LEA ELLA WATKINS THOMPSON ALBANY - Lea Ella Watkins Thompson, 77, died Sunday, Dec. 1, 2002, at her home. She was a native of Hammond and a member of Bethlehem Baptist Church, Albany. She is survived by two sons, Richard Watkins of Pumpkin Center and Albin "K.K." Watkins of Albany; one daughter, Tommie Lee Wild of Albany; five grandchildren and one great- grandchild. She was preceded in death by her first husband, John Watkins; second husband, O.D. Thompson; and one brother, Lewis V. Albin. Visitation will be Tuesday at Geisler Funeral Home, Albany, from 10 a.m. until the funeral at noon. Burial will be in Bethlehem Baptist Church, Albany. December 03, 2002 * Tony LaBruzzo, 87, Independence * Roy Paul Miceli Sr., 81, Independence * Lucinda Williams, 67, Gonzales * Pauline Tate Williams, 63, Kentwood -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- TONY LABRUZZO INDEPENDENCE - Tony LaBruzzo, 87, died Monday, Dec. 2, 2002, at Lallie Kemp Regional Medical Center, Independence. He was a native of Independence, a mechanic and an automobile body repairman. He is survived by his wife, Anna M. Muscarello LaBruzzo of Independence; one son, John A. LaBruzzo of Pearlington, Miss.; nine grandchildren and numerous great- and great-great- grandchildren; one stepdaughter, Ginger Blackwell of Independence; and one stepson, Michael Muscarello of Independence. He was preceded in death by his first wife, Francis Lamonica LaBruzzo; one son, Frank A. LaBruzzo; and one brother, Johnny LaBruzzo. Visitation will be today at Harry McKneely & Son Funeral Home, Hammond, from 6 to 9 p.m. with a vigil prayer service at 7 and Wednesday from 8 until 10 a.m. The Rev. Paul McDuffey will conduct the funeral at 10:30 at Mater Dolorosa Catholic Church, Independence. Burial will be in Colonial Mausoleum. -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- ROY MICELI SR. INDEPENDENCE - Roy Miceli Sr., 81, died Sunday, Dec. 1, 2002, at North Oaks Medical Center, Hammond. He was a native of Independence, an automobile mechanic and a U.S. Army veteran of World War II. He is survived by his wife, Rose Vittoria Miceli of Independence; one son, Roy P. Miceli Jr. of Independence; one daughter, Carolyn M. Hall of Hammond; one brother, Sam Miceli of Baton Rouge; three sisters, Jennie Miceli of Hammond, Nena Guzzardo of Independence and Marion Uli of Tickfaw; three grandchildren and five great-grandchildren. He was preceded in death by his parents, Paul and Josephine Zemardo Miceli, sisters and brothers. Visitation will be today at Harry McKneely & Son Funeral Home, Hammond, from 6 to 9 p.m. with a vigil prayer service at 7:30 and Wednesday from 8 a.m. until the Rev. Paul McDuffy conducts the funeral at 1:30 p.m. Burial will be in Colonial Mausoleum, Independence. -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- LUCINDA WILLIAMS GONZALES - Lucinda Williams, 67, died Thursday, Nov. 28, 2002, at Our Lady of the Lake Regional Medical Center, Baton Rouge. She is survived by three sons, Steve Johnson Jr. of Sorrento, Herman Johnson of Milwaukee and Antonio Williams of Seattle; four sisters, Rosie Bureau of Sorrento, Luvenia Smith of St. Amant, Hazel Douglas of Hammond and Zallie Mae Cooper of Mobile, Ala.; two brothers, Cleveland Douglas of Ponchatoula and Fred Douglas of Kenner; numerous grandchildren and great-grandchildren. Visitation will be Thursday at Christian Assembly, Gonzales, from 5 p.m. until the the Rev. Richard Rayborn conducts the funeral at 7. Dismissal will be Friday at 11 a.m. Burial will be in Whitehill Cemetery, Head of Island. MJR Friendly Service Funeral Home, Denham Springs, is in charge. -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- PAULINE TATE WILLIAMS KENTWOOD - Pauline Tate Williams, 63, died Thursday, Nov. 28, 2002. She was a native of Sunnyhill and a retired nurse's aide. She is survived by eight daughters, Roslin Tate, Brenda Causey, Sandra Williams and Rosa Jackson, all of Mount Hermon, Janice Williams of Franklinton, Ester Robinson of Roseland, Elaine Brumfield of Kentwood, and Jacqueline Brumfield of Tylertown, Miss.; three sons, Johnny Williams of Progress, Miss.; Earnest Williams of Arcola and Raymond Williams of Franklinton; two sisters, Ruby Arkins and Alvintrue Bolden, both of Baton Rouge; five brothers, Murray, John Earl and Mitchell Murphy Tate Jr., all of Baton Rouge; Don E. Tate of Bonaire, Ga.; and Mark Tate of Kentwood; 20 grandchildren and three great-grandchildren. She was preceded in death by her mother, Millie Tate; one sister and two brothers. The Rev. Johnny Causey conducted the funeral today at Mount Olive Missionary Baptist Church, Mount Hermon. Burial was in the church cemetery. Crain and Sons Funeral Home, Franklinton, was in charge. December 04, 2002 * Melvin Jean Addison, 62, Amite * James E. Carr, 62, Amite * Betty Faye Watson, 75, St. Francisville -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- MELVIN JEAN ADDISON AMITE - Melvin Jean Addison, 62, died Wednesday, Nov. 27, 2002, at Hood Memorial Hospital. She was a native of Centerville, Miss. She is survived by one daughter, Patricia Perkins of Amite; and three grandchildren. She was preceded in death by her parents, Leon Addison and Donnie Weathersby; and one sister, Catherine Burris. Visitation will be Friday at Richardson Funeral Home, Amite, from 5 to 9 p.m. The Rev. Thomas Robinson will conduct the funeral Saturday at 1 p.m. Burial will be in Butler Cemetery, Amite. -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- JAMES E. CARR AMITE - James E. Carr, 62, died Saturday, Nov. 30, 2002, at Lallie Kemp Regional Medical Center, Independence. He was a native of Amite. He is survived by two sons, Raymond Carr Sr. of Detroit and James Hayes of Hammond; five daughters, Patricia Bryant of Amite, Geraldine Baham and Lisa Carr, both of Loranger, Angela and Yolanda Hayes, both of Hammond; three sisters, Mary Louise Steptoe, Shirley Mae Burton and Betty J. Leonard, all of Amite; and 20 grandchildren. He was preceded in death by his parents, Ella Tate and Willie Carr Sr.; two sisters, two brothers and one son, James E. Roberts. Visitation will be today at Richardson Funeral Home, Amite, from 5 to 9 p.m. Nathaniel Richardson will conduct the funeral Thursday at 1 p.m. Burial will be in Butler Cemetery, Amite. -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- BETTY FAYE WATSON ST. FRANCISVILLE - Betty Faye "Ragan" Watson, 75, died Monday, Dec. 2, 2002, at Our Lady of the Lake Regional Medical Center, Baton Rouge. She was a native of Ponchatoula, a member of St. Francisville United Methodist Church and assisted at the West Feleciana Historical Museum. She is survived by one daughter, Faye Lynn Woods of North Richland Hills, Texas; one son, Stanley M. Watson of St. Francisville; four sisters, Lou Fitzmorris and Joy Sheridan, both of Ponchatoula; Yvonne Triche of St. Francisville, and Norma Rabby of Jacksonville, Fla.; two grandchildren, two step-grandchildren and two step-great-grandchildren. She was preceded in death by her husband, Robert "Sonny" Watson; her mother, Ruby Ragan; her father, G.E. "Spike" Ragan; two brothers, Stanley "Hickey" and Clarence "Spike" Ragan. Visitation will be Thursday at St. Francisville United Methodist Church from noon until the the Rev. Harold Babin and the Rev. Mike Clarke conduct the funeral at 2 p.m. Memorial donations may be made to St. Francisville United Methodist Church Building Fund, P.O. box 358, St. Francisville 70775. December 05, 2002 * John Elwood Boyd, 45, Ponchatoula * Bunny Mae Blean Cannon, 79, Roseland * Mattie L. Hunter, 73, Covington * James Allison Mayfield, 82, Carrollton, Miss. * Baron Sory Miller, 40, Tangipahoa -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- JOHN ELWOOD BOYD PONCHATOULA - John Elwood Boyd, 45, died Wednesday, Dec. 4, 2002, at North Oaks Medical Center, Hammond. He was a native of McComb, Miss.; and a retired bridge painter with Johnson Brothers Inc. of Baton Rouge. He is survived by his wife, Elizabeth Boyd of Ponchatoula; two daughters, Janice B. Hardin of Hammond and Jessica M. Boyd of Ponchatoula; his parents, C.K. Johnson and Willie Mae Johnson; one brother, Rickey R. Boyd of Baton Rouge; one sisters, Maureen Heurtin of Destrahan; and one grandchild. He was preceded in death by his grandparents, Wilton O'Quin and Lena Mae O'Quin. Visitation will be today at Hartman Funeral Home, McComb, from 5 to 9 p.m. and Friday from 8 a.m. until the Rev. Mack Amis conducts the funeral at 11. Burial will be in Enon Cemetery, Jayess, Miss. -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- BUNNY MAE BLEAN CANNON ROSELAND - Bunny Mae Blean Cannon, 79, died Wednesday, Dec. 4, 2002, at North Oaks Medical Center, Hammond. She was a native of Columbia, S.C., and a housewife. She is survived by numerous nieces and nephews. She was preceded in death by her husband, James Bivens Cannon; and one son, James Keith Cannon. Visitation will be Friday at McKneely Funeral Home, Amite, from 8 a.m. until the Rev. Dan Bond conducts the funeral at 11. Burial will be in Dees Cemetery, Roseland. -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- MATTIE L. HUNTER COVINGTON - Mattie L. Hunter, 73, died Saturday, Nov. 30, 2002, at Lakeview Regional Medical Center in Covington. She was a native of Lacombe. She is survived by three daughters, Linda Dillon and Eva Francis Clark, both of Covington, and Mattie L. Morris of Lacombe; two sons, Jerome M. Hunter of New Orleans and Lucian Hunter of Jacksonville, Fla.; three brothers, Harold, Lawrence and Larry Dupree, all of Lacombe; and nine grandchildren. She was preceded in death by her husband, James Hunter. Visitation will be Friday at Kingdom Hall of Jehovah's Witnesses, Covington, from 10 a.m. until the funeral at 11:30. Burial will be in Williams Cemetery, Lacombe. N.A. James Funeral Home, Hammond, is in charge. -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- JAMES ALLISON MAYFIELD JR. CARROLLTON, Miss. - James "Jim" Allison Mayfield Jr., 82, died Monday, Dec. 2, 2002, in Grenada, Miss., due to respiratory failure. He was a retired construction ironworker. He lived in Ponchatoula for 15 years before moving to Leland, Miss. He was a member of the International Association of Iron Workers Local 58 in New Orleans, LA Chapter, Carrollton Masonic Lodge 36, York Rites Body and the Commander's Council, and J.A. Mayfield Masonic Lodge 165. He is survived by his wife, Stella Ann Smith Mayfield of Carrollton; one son, James Allison Mayfield III of Covington; six daughters, Grace Mayfield Morlino of Carrollton, Mary Ann Mayfield Ballard of Mathiston, Miss., Danice Mayfield Price of Ocean Springs, Miss., Geane Mayfield Roach of Grenada, Miss., Bonnie Evans of California and Nancy Walker of Byhalia, Miss.; 21 grandchildren and seven great-grandchildren. He was preceded in death by his parents, James Sisk and Mary Lucille Brown Mayfield. The Rev. Tom Johnson conducted the funeral today. Burial was in Masonic Cemetery, Amory, Miss. Donations may be made to J.A. Mayfield Masonic Lodge, 502 Main St. S., Amory, MS 38821; The Mason's Care and Share, Inc., 228 Kiowa Drive, Madison, MS 39110; The Palmer Home for Children, P.O. Box 746, Columbus, MS 39703-0746; Masonic Children's Home or the Shriner's Hospital of your choice. E.E. Pickle Funeral Home, Amory, was in charge. -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- BARON SORY MILLER TANGIPAHOA - Baron Sory Miller, 40, died Tuesday, Dec. 3, 2002, at Lallie Kemp Hospital in Independence. He is survived by his wife, Debra Miller of Tangipahoa; four sons, David Cryer of Amite, Earl Bailey, Marlon Bailey and Stanley Bailey, all of Tangipahoa; one daughter, Keysha Bailey of Tangipahoa; two sisters, Catherine and Linda Hall, both of Kentwood; five brothers, Timothy Hall, Glenn D. Miller and Alvin B. Miller, all of Kentwood, Archie Joe Miller of Sonnyhill and Timothy R. Miller of McComb, Miss.; his mother, Ora Dean Miller of Kentwood; his father, Ellis Hall of Kentwood; his grandmother, Lois Briggs of Kentwood; and two grandchildren. He was preceded in death by his grandfather, Johnny S. Miller; and his grandmothers, Myrtis Hall and Mariah Harold. Visitation will be Friday at Richardson Funeral Home, Amite, from 5 to 9 p.m. The Rev. Joseph Ricard will conduct the funeral Saturday at Greater Refuge Temple Ministries, Amite, at 11 a.m. Burial will be in Brown/Quinn Cemetery, Tangipahoa. December 06, 2002 * Lester Franklin, 49, St. Paul, Minn. * Lavina Dale Gill, 46, Tickfaw * Robert J. Vigier, 86, Ponchatoula * Ada Zerangue Durio, 84, Arnaudville * Eugene McClendon, 19, Baton Rouge -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- LESTER FRANKLIN ST. PAUL, Minn. - Lester Franklin, 49, died Monday, Nov. 25, 2002. He was a native of Independence. He is survived by his mother, Lillie M. Franklin; father, John W. Franklin Sr.; six sisters, Barbara of New Orleans, Josephine of Amite; Emma of Slidell, Sadie of Anderson, Ala.; Angelina of Hammond, and Beverly of Baton Rouge; seven brothers, Charles W. of Oakland, Calif.; John W. of Independence, David L., Sr. of Amite, Phillip J. of Holanville, Texas; Richard and Isaiah, both of New Orleans; and Ivy Doty of Hammond. He was preceded in death by John W. Franklin Sr. Visitation will be today at Angelic Funeral Home, Roseland, from 2 until the Rev. David L. Franklin Sr. conducts the funeral at 8 p.m. Dismissal will be Saturday at 11 a.m. Burial will be in Butler's Cemetery, Amite. -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- LAVINA DALE GILL TICKFAW - Lavina Dale Gill, 46, died today, Dec. 6, 2002, at North Oaks Medical Center, Hammond. Arrangements are incomplete and will be announced with Harry McKneely & Son Funeral, Ponchatoula. -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- ROBERT J. VIGIER PONCHATOULA - Robert J. Vigier, 86, died Tuesday, Dec. 3, 2002, at his home. He was a native of Slidell, and a retired worker for the Jefferson Parish Recreation Department and a veteran of World War II. He is survived by one sister, Dorothy V. Steiner of West Covina, Calif.; and one brother, Andrew Vigier of Harahan. He was preceded in death by his wife, Lottie Gainey Vigier; one son, Robert J. Vigier Jr.; three brothers, Louis Vigier Jr., Paul Vigier and Charles Vigier; three sisters, Thelma V. Dours, Hilda V. Andrus and Mildred V. Bostick; and his parents, Louis and Leona T. Vigier. A memorial service will be held at a later date. N.A. James Funeral Home, Hammond, is in charge. -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- ADA ZERANGUE DURIOARNAUDVILLE - Ada Zerangue Durio, 84, died Wednesday, Dec. 4, 2002, at North Oaks Medical Center in Hammond. She was a native and resident of Arnaudville. She is survived by two sons, Anthony Durio and Russell Durio, both of Amite; one daughter, Rose Marie Savoie of Pearland, Texas; two brothers, Frank Zerangue of Crestwell, Ore. and Claude Zerangue of Soulsbyville, Calif.; four sisters, Angelle Lanclos, Louise Lagrange and Armonse Willingham, all of Arnaudville and Amanda Hollier of Sunset; eight grandchildren and six great-grandchildren. She was preceded in death by her husband, Howard J. Durio; her parents, Oscar Zerangue and Rosa Courville Zerangue; two brothers, Dennis Zerangue and Joseph Zerangue; and one sister, Aline Lanclos. The funeral was today. Burial was in St. Francis Regis Cemetery, Arnaudville. Melancon Funeral Home, Arnaudville, was in charge. -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- EUGENE MCCLENDON BATON ROUGE - Eugene McClendon, 19, died Monday, Dec. 2, 2002, at his residence. He was a native of Ponchatoula. He is survived by his mother, Shawunda Ann McClendon of Baton Rouge; his grandmother, Sandra Scales of Baton Rouge; his great-grandmother, Fannie Stevens of Ponchatoula; his grandfather, Louis McClendon of Hammond; his stepgrandfather, Joseph Scales of Baton Rouge; one sister, Chancie Renee McClendon of Ponchatoula; and one brother, Calvin Clyde McClendon of Baton Rouge. He was preceded in death by his great-great-grandmother, Amy Jackson. Visitation will be today at Richardson Funeral Home, Hammond, from 6 to 8 p.m. The Rev. James Ellis will conduct the funeral Saturday at Pentecostal One Way Holy Church of God, Hammond, at 1 p.m. Burial will be in Holly Garden Cemetery. December 08, 2002 * Richard W. Barker * Lavina Dale Gill * Dennis Ray Mclain * Monroe Marshall Milton Jr. -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- RICHARD W. BARKER JEFFERSON - Richard W. Barker, 65, died Thursday, Dec. 5, 2002 at his residence. He was a Hammond native. He is survived by three daughters, Minnie Elizabeth Ockman of Amite, Massalet Barker of Tickfaw and Margaret McCain of Livingston; one sister, Margaret McKinney of Killian; one brother, Johnny Lee Barker of Texas; one half-sister, Emma Ballard of Walker; and five grandchildren. His parents, John William and Minnie Lee Badon Barker, preceded him in death. Visitation will be Tuesday from 9 a.m. until the services at 11 at Geisler Funeral Home in Albany. Burial will be in Little River United Pentecostal Church on state Highway 442 in Tickfaw. -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- LAVINA DALE GILL TICKFAW - Lavina Dale Gill, 46, died Friday, Dec. 6, 2002, at North Oaks Medical Center in Hammond. She was a native of Hammond. She is survived by her mother, Lawuna Norwood Dunkin of Ponchatoula; her step-father, Kenneth Lee Dunkin Sr. of Hammond; three daughters, Chasity Vasquez of Ponchatoula, Alecia Michelli of Lafayette and Johanna Monrroy of Jackson, Miss.; one sister, Credia Armato of Independence; two brothers, Carl L. Dunkin of Ponchatoula and Leon G. Dunkin of Robert; 13 grandchildren and many aunts, uncles, cousins and friends. She was preceded in death by her father, David Levi Gill, and her grandmother, Ora Norwood. Visitation will be at Harry McKneely and Son Funeral Home in Ponchatoula today from 10 a.m. until the religious services, to be conducted by the Rev. Mark Norwood, at 2 p.m. at the funeral home chapel. Burial will be in Sand Hill Cemetery. -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- DENNIS RAY MCLAIN COVINGTON - Dennis Ray McLain, 65 and a lifelong resident of Covington, died Thursday, Dec. 5, 2002. Relatives include his wife, Eltimae Laird McLain, who, like most of her family members, is from Ponchatoula; his parents, Beulah Thigpen McLain and the late Lindsey McLain; his daughters, Denise Massey and Donna Barker; his son, Steven McLain; his brothers, George, Avarice and Larry McLain; and grandchildren. Relatives and friends of the family are invited to attend the funeral service today at 2 p.m. at E.J. Fielding Funeral Home Inc., 2260 West 21st Ave., Covington. Friends may call from 1 p.m. until the funeral begins. Burial will be in New Zion Baptist Church Cemetery. -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- MONROE MARSHALL MILTON JR. ROBERT - Monroe Marshall Milton Jr., 82 and a native of Robert, died Saturday, December 7, 2002, at North Oaks Medical Center. He is survived by his wife of 62 years, Helen Bradley Milton of Robert; two daughters, Mariam M. Frederick of Robert and Devonna M. Bennett of Robert; his brother, Austin Milton of Robert; five grandchildren and seven great-grandchildren. He was preceded in death by his parents, Monroe Milton Sr. and Mary Allen Milton; his son, Vaughn Milton; two brothers, Gerald Milton and George Milton; and three sisters, Thelma Taylor, Elma Broussard and Jeanette Fendlason Wells. Visitation will be at Harry McKneeley and Son in Ponchatoula today from 6 p.m. until 10 p.m. and Monday from 8 a.m. until religious services, to be conducted by the Rev. James Ray Robertson and the Rev. Glynn Fendlason, at 11 in the funeral home chapel. Burial will be in Joiner Cemetery. December 09, 2002 * Jettie Pierre Baham, 69, Independence. * Howard Jackson, 81, Springfield. * Lawrence Robert Taylor Sr., 66, Loranger. -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- JETTIE PIERRE BAHAM INDEPENDENCE - Jettie Pierre Baham, 69, died Sunday, Dec. 8, 2002, at North Oaks Medical Center, Hammond. She was a native of Loranger and resident of Independence. Arrangements are being made with Harry McKneely & Son Funeral Home, Hammond. -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- HOWARD JACKSON SPRINGFIELD - Howard Jackson, an 81-year-old retired construction worker, died Wednesday, Dec. 4, 2002, at his home. He was a native of Jackson. Survivors include his wife, Mary Green Jackson of Springfield; six daughters, Vivian King of Baker, Thelma Randall, Mary Robertson and Juanita Harris, all of Hammond, and Bobbie Pierre and Annette Jackson of Springfield; four sons, John, James, Mack and Danny Jackson, all of Springfield; a half-brother, Zeb Hollins of Baton Rouge; 21 grandchildren; and 36 great- grandchildren. His parents were the late Tellie and John Jackson. Brothers Johnny, Simon and Eddie Jackson and sisters Martha Gales, Thelma Spears, Auguline Coach, Long Banks and Mary Bolin also preceded him in death. Visitation will be at Richardson Funeral Home, Hammond, Tuesday from 5 to 9 p.m. Russell Watkins will conduct the funeral Wednesday ay 11 a.m. at Hope In Salvation, Ponchatoula. Burial will be in Holly Garden Cemetery. -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- LAWRENCE ROBERT TAYLOR SR. LORANGER - Lawrence Robert Taylor Sr., 66, died Sunday, Dec. 8, 2002, at the Medical Center of New Orleans. He was a native of Hammond and resident of Loranger. Survivors include two daughters, Lorie Martin of Franklinton and Sharon Tornabene of Memphis; a son, Lawrence Taylor Jr. of Memphis; 10 grandchildren; and two great- grandchildren; a brother, Lee Taylor Jr. of Springfield; and a sister, Dorothy Taylor of Hammond. His parents were Louis Taylor Sr. and Lovie Neyland Taylor, both deceased. Visitation will be at Harry McKneely & Son Funeral Home, Hammond, tonight from 6 to 10 pand Tuesday from 8 a.m. until the Rev. Melvin Rushing conducts the funeral at 2 p.m. Burial will be in Averett Cemetery, Loranger. December 10, 2002 * Jettie Pierre Baham, 69, Independence. * Shawn Ethan Edwards, 30, Hammond. * Charles Joe Herman, 61, Baton Rouge. * Audrey Simmons, 91, Amite. * Alton Williams, 77, Walker. -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- JETTIE PIERRE BAHAM INDEPENDENCE - Jettie Pierre Baham, 69, died Sunday, Dec. 8, 2002, at North Oaks Medical Center, Hammond. She was a native of Loranger. Survivors include a daughter, Debra A. Oulliber of Covington; two sons, Andrew Robert Baham of Tickfaw and Columbus J. Baham Jr. of Independence; her father, Robert Pierre of Natalbany; seven sisters, Mary Cangelosi of Natalbany, Elizabeth Pierre of North Louisiana, Connie McKnight of Independence, Deloris Goodrich of Loranger, Shirley McConnel of Natalbany, and Elaine Matthews of Ponchatoula; three brothers, Wilbert, Shelton and Albert Pierre, all of Natalbany; six grandchildren; and one great-grandchild. She was preceded in death by her husband, Columbus J. Baham Sr.; his mother, Mary P. Pierre; a sister, Leona Prime; and a brother, Daniel Pierre. Visitation will be at Harry McKneely & Son Funeral Home, Hammond, Thursday from 6 to 9 p.m., and Friday from 8 a.m. until the Lorena Wilson conducts the funeral at 10:30 a.m. Burial will be in St. Roch Cemetery, Husser. -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- SHAWN ETHAN EDWARDS Shawn Ethan Edwards, a 30-year-old conductor for the Illinois Central Railroad, died Saturday, Dec. 7, 2002, in Cottonport. He was a native of Oklahoma City and resident of Hammond. Survivors include his mother, Nancy W. Baird of Hammond; a son, Hunter Adams Edwards of Gonzales; a brother, James McCollum of Houston; grandfather, John W. Wilson of Texas. His father Charles E. Edwards and stepfather Tommy W. Baird Sr. are both deceased. Visitation will be at Welsh Funeral Home, Baton Rouge, Thursday from 10 a.m. until the Rev. Jack Stoop conducts the funeral at 2 p.m. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Shawn Edwards Memorial Fund at any Hibernia Bank. -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- CHARLES JOE HERMAN BATON ROUGE - Charles Joe Herman, 61, died Thursday, Dec. 5, 2002, at Earl K. Long Medical Center, Baton Rouge. Survivors include his wife, Alma M. Herman; his mother, Wilma Olden; a son, Troy Ray Herman; and two brothers, Alton Olden and Johnny Ray Herman. Visitation will be Wednesday at Nazarene Baptist Church, Baton Rouge, from 9 until the Rev. Albert Green conducts the funeral at 11 a.m. Burial will be in Hope Cemetery, Baton Rouge. N.A. James Funeral Home, Hammond, is in charge. -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- AUDREY SIMMONS AMITE - Audrey Simmons, a 91-year-old housewife, died Monday, Dec. 9, 2002, at her home. She was a native of Mount Herman and resident of Amite. Survivors include four daughters, Dorothy Elizabeth Montgomery of Denham Springs, Ara Jane Westmoreland of Denham Springs, Ruth Simmons of Amite and Shirley Elaine Holden of Amite; three sons, Boyce Otis Simmons and James Claiborn Simmons, both of Amite; and Earl Wayne Simmons of Albany; a sister, Myrtle Boyd of Mount Herman; 21 grandchildren; 27 great-grandchildren; 2 great-great-grandchildren; and numerous stepgreat-grandchildren; and stepgreat-great-grandchildren. She was preceded in death by her husband, John Otis Simmons; a son, Gerald Simmons; her parents, James Thomas and Ara Lorraine Painter Miller; four brothers, Hermon, Thermon, Lucious and Wilson Miller; five sisters, Zula Riley, Bula Miller, Audis Simmons, Tessie Dedon and Orie Johnson and two grandchildren. Visitation will be at McKneely Funeral Home, Amite, tonight from 6 to 10 and Wednesday from 8 until the Rev. Gerald Martin conducts the funeral at 11 a.m. Burial will be in Shady Grove Cemetery, Amite. -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- ALTON WILLIAMS WALKER - Alton Williams, 77, died Saturday, Dec. 7, 2002, at Golden Age Nursing Home, Denham Springs. He is survived by his wife, Viola H. Williams; his mother, Evelyn Thomas; a daughter, Kristy Williams; a stepdaughter, Karen Byrd; three sons, Alfred Williams, Willie Williams and John Douglas; a sister, Willie M. Reams; two brothers, Percy Williams and Jessie Williams; 16 grandchildren; and four great-grandchildren. He was preceded in death by his father, Jessie Williams Sr.; stepfather, William Thomas; and his first wife, Harriet T. Williams. Visitation will be at Greater St. Mark Baptist Church, Walker, tonight from 5 to 8. The Rev. Alfred Hart will conduct the funeral Thursday at 11 a.m. Burial will be in the church cemetery. N.A. James Funeral Home, Hammond, is in charge. December 11, 2002 * Jettie Pierre Baham, 69, Independence * Myra June Robertson Bahm, 70, Hammond. * Mary Duncan Nunnery, 43, Mount Hermon. * Dorothy Day White, 83, Kentwood. -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- JETTIE PIERRE BAHAM INDEPENDENCE - Jettie Pierre Baham, 69, died Sunday, Dec. 8, 2002, at North Oaks Medical Center, Hammond. She was a native of Loranger. Survivors include a daughter, Debra A. Oulliber of Covington; two sons, Andrew Robert Baham of Tickfaw and Columbus J. Baham Jr. of Independence; her father, Robert Pierre of Natalbany; seven sisters, Mary Cangelosi of Natalbany, Elizabeth Pierre of North Louisiana, Connie McKnight of Independence, Deloris Goodrich of Loranger, Shirley McConnel of Natalbany, and Elaine Matthews of Ponchatoula; three brothers, Wilbert, Shelton and Albert Pierre, all of Natalbany; six grandchildren; and one great-grandchild. She was preceded in death by her husband, Columbus J. Baham Sr.; her mother, Mary B. Pierre; a sister, Leona Prime; and a brother, Daniel Pierre. Visitation will be at Harry McKneely & Son Funeral Home, Hammond, Thursday from 6 to 9 p.m., and Friday from 8 a.m. until the Lorena Wilson conducts the funeral at 10:30 a.m. Burial will be in St. Roch Cemetery, Husser. -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- MYRA JUNE ROBERTSON BAHM Myra June Robertson Bahm, 70, died Tuesday, Dec. 10, 2002, at North Oaks Medical Center, Hammond. A native of Independence, she was a retired educator with the Tangipahoa Parish School System having taught at Independence High School. She is survived by a son, Elton Dale Bahm of Independence; a sister, Vera Cambre of St. Gabriel; and a grandchild. She was preceded in death by her husband, Edward Elton Bahm; a daughter, Donna Lynn Bahm; a brother, Joe Pierce Robertson; and her parents, Eli James and Idee Stewart Robertson. Visitation will be at Harry McKneely & Son Funeral Home, Hammond, Thursday from 5 to 9 p.m., and Friday from 8 a.m. until the Rev. Frank Danley conducts the funeral at 2 p.m. Burial will be in Neal Cemetery, Husser. -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- MARY DUNCAN NUNNERY MOUNT HERMAN - Mary Duncan Nunnery, 43, died Monday, Dec. 9, 2002, at Lallie Kemp Hospital, Independence. She is survived by her husband, Curtis Nunnery of Liberty, Miss.; a son, Jeffery Nunnery of Liberty; two stepchildren, Sheila McKnight of Independence, and Tony Nunnery of Summit, Miss.; her father, Clevie Duncan of Mount Herman; a sister, Sharon Watson of Mount Herman; and five grandchildren. Her mother, Vernie Dykes Duncan, preceded her in death. Visitation will be today at Crain Funeral Home, Franklinton, from 9:30 a.m. until the Rev. R.C. Branch conducts the graveside funeral at 3 p.m. at Maples Cemetery, Mount Herman. -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- DOROTHY DAY WHITE KENTWOOD - Dorothy Day White, 83, died Tuesday, Dec. 10, 2002, at Hood Memorial Hospital, Amite. A native of Tinus, she was a homemaker married to Ambrose White of Kentwood. Survivors also include two sisters, Evelyn Duplechan of Roseland and Wilma Crawford of Mobile, Ala. Her first husband, Drew Smith, preceded her in death, as did two brothers, Reid Day and Bob Day, and her parents, Emmitt and Lorena Day. The Rev. Percy Frazier will conduct the funeral at Harry McKneely & Son, Kentwood, today at 3 p.m. Burial will be in Woodland Cemetery, Kentwood. December 12, 2002 * Myra June Robertson Bahm, 70, Hammond. * Wilmer Burton, 82, Roseland. * Frank Hancock Sr., 55, Chesbrough. * Ivory Hunter Sr., 57, New Orleans. * Demetri Patrice Lewis, 36, Baton Rouge. * Georgia Lee Ruffin, 56, Roseland. * Bruce W. Sheridan, 76, Ponchatoula. * Catherine Klein Spizale, 87, Lafayette. -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- MYRA JUNE ROBERTSON BAHM Myra June Robertson Bahm, 70, died Tuesday, Dec. 10, 2002, at North Oaks Medical Center, Hammond. She was a native of Independence, and a retired educator with the Tangipahoa Parish School System. She taught in the Independence School System. Survivors include a Elton Dale Bahm of Independence; a sister, Vera Cambre of St. Gabriel; and a grandchild. She was preceded in death by her husband, Edward Elton Bahm; a daughter, Donna Lynn Bahm; a brother, Joe Pierce Robertson; and her parents, Eli James and Idee Stewart Robertson. Visitation will be at Harry McKneely & Son Funeral Home, Hammond, tonight from 5 to 9 p.m. and Friday from 8 a.m. until the Rev. Frank Danley conducts the funeral at 2 p.m. Burial will be in Neal Cemetery, Husser. -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- WILMER BURTON ROSELAND - Wilmer Burton, 82, died Monday, Dec. 9, 2002, at his home. Survivors include a son, Wilmer Burton Jr. of Decatur, Ga.; three daughters, Melvileen B. Bellow of Roseland and Gloria and Pamela G. Burton, both of New Orleans; four sisters, Shirley Wilson of Wilmer, Maude Sims and Claudia Dyson, both of Roseland, and Melinda Jackson of Baton Rouge; and three grandchildren. His parents, Ellis and Nettie Burton, and his wife, Lucille Burton, preceded him in death as did a brother, James Brooke Sr., and a sister, Lucille B. Plessy. Visitation will be at Richardson Funeral Home, Amite, Friday from 5 to 9 p.m. The Rev. Hosea Cook will conduct the funeral Saturday at Mount Canaan Missionary Baptist Church, Roseland, at 1 p.m. Burial will be in the church. -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- FRANK HANCOCK SR. CHESBROUGH - Frank Hancock Sr., 55, died Monday, Dec. 9, 2002, at his home in Chesbrough. A native of Indiana, he was former owner of Hancock's Medical Transportation. Survivors include his wife, Nickie E. Hancock; three daughters, Laura Hancock Atkinson, Frankie Hancock Brumfield and Nickie C. Hancock; two sons, Frank Hancock Jr. and John Hancock; and 14 grandchildren. He was preceded in death by a daughter, Valerie Lynn Hancock; his parents, John and Edna Hancock; and a brother, Roger D. Hancock. The funeral was Wednesday.McKneely Funeral Home, Amite, was in charge. -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- IVORY HUNTER SR. NEW ORLEANS - Ivory Hunter Sr., 57, died Thursday, Dec. 5, 2002, at Touro Infirmary. He was born in Plaquemine and had lived in New Orleans for the past 56 years. He was a graduate of Walter L. Cohen High School and Compton College in Compton, Calif. He was a member of Second Good Shepherd Missionary Baptist Church, where he had been a member of the Deacon Board and the choir, and he was a member of the Hunter Brothers Singers. He was a forklift operator at Brand Scaffold Co., and former partner in Ivory and Hattie Hunter Trucking Co. Survivors include his wife, Hattie Hunter, three sons, Kevin Hunter, Edward Earl Hunter Sr. and Ivory Hunter Jr.; two brothers, Clarence Hunter Sr. of Harvey and Leroy Hunter Sr.; two sisters, Victory Ashberry and Selina Blackburn; and 13 grandchildren. Visitation will be at Second Good Shepherd Missionary Baptist Church, 619 Second St., New Orleans, Friday from 6 until the funeral at 8 p.m. Dismissal will be Saturday at 10 a.m. at the church. Burial will be in Providence Memorial Park. Calvin J. Young Funeral Home, New Orleans, is in charge. -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- DEMETRI PATRICE LEWIS BATON ROUGE - Demetri Patrice Lewis, 36, died Monday, Dec. 9, 2002, at Our Lady of the Lake Regional Medical Center, Baton Rouge. She was a native of New Orleans. She is survived by a son, Randall Hayes Jr. of Baton Rouge; a daughter, Charlotte Marie Hayes of Baton Rouge; six sisters, Joann Frazier of Amite, Cheryl St. Amant of Baton Rouge, Diane Wilson of New Orleans, Elaine Daniels of Pensacola, Fla.; Winifred Payne and Tomikia Alvarez, both of New Orleans; and seven brothers, Ernest Lewis Sr., James Lewis, Dwayne Bergeron, all of New Orleans; Kenneth and Chris Bergeron, both of Amite; Darren Lewis of Baton Rouge, and Alvin Lewis of Patterson, New Jersey. Her mother, Catherine Harrell Lewis, and her father, George Bergeron, preceded her in death as did grandparents, Josephine Richardson Harrell and Jasper Harrell Sr. Visitation will beat Richardson Funeral Home, Kenner, Friday from 5 to 9 p.m. Charles Daniels will conduct the funeral Saturday at 1 p.m. at Gordon Richardson Temple of Deliverance COGIC, Amite. Burial will be in the church cemetery. Richardson Funeral Home, Amite, is in charge. -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- GEORGIA LEE RUFFIN ROSELAND - Georgia Lee Ruffin, 56, died Friday, Dec. 6, 2002, at Villa Feliciana Geriatric Hospital in Jackson. Survivors include two daughters, Opelia Washington of Amite, and Shirley Robertson of Chicago; a son, Leo Walls Jr. of Roseland; and two brothers, Daniel Ruffin of Independence, and John L. Ruffin of Chicago. Her parents and two brothers preceded her in death. The funeral will be Saturday at Roseland COGIC at 1 p.m. Burial will be in Mount Canaan Cemetery, Roseland. N.A. James Funeral Home, Hammond, is in charge. -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- BRUCE W. SHERIDAN PONCHATOULA - Bruce W. Sheridan, 76, died Wednesday, Dec. 11, 2002, at his home. Survivors include his wife, Janis Sanchez Sheridan of Ponchatoula; a daughter, Brenda Sheridan Lavigne of Foxworth, Miss.; a son, Bruce W. Sheridan Jr. of St. Francisville; and two grandchildren. His parents, Samuel B. and Mary Tullos Sheridan, preceded him in death as did six brothers, Ottis, Ozone, Samuel, D.B. "Pug," Ray and Floyd Sheridan, and four sisters, Alberta Wright, Sadie Wells, Lola Sheridan and Lillian Ross. Visitation will be at Harry McKneely & Son Funeral Home, Ponchatoula, tonight from 6 to 9 p.m., and Friday from 8 until the Rev. Leo Miller conducts the funeral at 10 a.m. Burial will be in Sand Hill Cemetery. -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- CATHERINE KLEIN SPIZALE LAFAYETTE - Catherine Klein Spizale, 87, died Wednesday, Dec. 11, 2002, at Lafayette General Medical Center. A native of Hammond, she had lived in New Orleans most of her life and resided in Lafayette for 10 years. She was a member of the St. Mary Catholic Community. She is survived by three sons, Charles Micele of Panama City, Fla., Stephen Spizale of Littleton, Colo., and David Spizale of Lafayette; nine grandchildren; eight great-grandchildren; and a great-great-grandchild. She was preceded in death by her first husband, Vincent C. Micele; her second husband, Charles F. Spizale; her parents, Fritz and Annette Boyer Klein; a sister, Mary Francis Wobbe; and a great-grandchild. Visitation will be at Martin & Castille Funeral Home, Lafayette, tonight from 4 to 8 p.m. with a rosary at 7, and Friday from 9 until Mass at 11 a.m. The Rev. Thomas P. Voorhies will conduct the service. Burial will be in La Chapelle de Martin & Castille. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions in Mrs. Spizale's name may be made to Hospice of Acadiana, 2600 Johnson St., Suite 200, Lafayette, LA 70503. December 13, 2002 * Loney Mary Lewis Chatelain, 82, Maurepas. * Thomas C. Nichols Sr., Loranger. * Lena Lala Monteleone, 91, Hammond. * Claude W. Taylor Sr., 83, Franklinton. * Emily Wyre, 88, Kentwood. -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- MARGARET WALDREP ALFORD Margaret Waldrep Alford, 87, died Wednesday, Dec. 11, 2002, at her home. She was a native of Hammond and a graduate of Duke University where she was a member of the Dean's List and of Kappa Delta Social Sorority and earned numerous additional degrees and studies. She was a member of First United Methodist Church, AAUW, Women's Medical Auxiliary and Daughter's of the American Revolution and a former member of the Board of Directors of First Guaranty Bank. She is survived by two daughters, Anne Elizabeth Alford Flippin of Jackson, Miss., and Margaret Suzanne Alford Loomis of Dallas, Texas; a brother, O.P. "Red" Waldrep of Denham Springs; and three grandchildren. She was preceded in death by her husband, Charles D. "Bo" Alford; her parents, Oscar Peyton and Annie Laurie Waldrep; and her sisters, Annie Ruth Waldrep and Elizabeth Waldrep Chalk. Visitation will be Saturday at First United Methodist Church, Hammond, from 11 a.m. until the funeral at noon. Burial will be in Greenlawn Cemetery. Memorials may be made to the Margaret W. Alford Memorial Fund that is being established at Southeastern Louisiana University. Harry McKneely & Son Funeral Home, Hammond, is in charge of arrangements. -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- LONEY MARY LEWIS CHATELAIN MAUREPAS - Loney Mary Lewis Chatelain, 82, died Thursday, Dec. 12, 2002, at Kenner Regional Medical Center. She was a native of Maurepas and a member of Maurepas Methodist Church. She is survived by one daughter, Joan Evelyn Chatelain Fabre of LaPlace; two sons, Gregory Thomas Chatelain of Ponchatoula, and Douglas Neil Chatelain of Maurepas; four sisters, Rowanna Villar of Prairieville, Hazel Mashon of Ponchatoula, Ernestine Schwartzburg of Foley, Ala., and Shirley Whitchard of Centerville, Va.; seven grandchildren; and six great- grandchildren. She was preceded in death by her husband, Thomas Robert Chatelain; and her parents, John and Leontine Fontenot Lewis. Visitation will be Saturday at Harry McKneely & Son Funeral Home, Ponchatoula, from 6 to 9 p.m., and Sunday from 10 a.m. until 1 p.m. The Rev. Bill Foster will conduct the funeral at 2 p.m. at Maurepas Methodist Church. Burial will be in Maurepas Cemetery, Maurepas. -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- LENA MONTELEONE Lena Lala Monteleone, 91, died Friday, Dec. 13, 2002, the Hammond Rehabilitation Hospital. She was a member of Holy Ghost Catholic Church and Catholic Daughters of America. She is survived by one daughter, Deanna M. Broderick of Hammond; two sons, Joseph A. Monteleone of Fort Worth, Texas, and Lenny A. Monteleone of Bush; one brother, Joe Lala III of Hammond; three sisters, Rose Notariano of Hammond, Mary Margaret Powless of Spartanburg, S.C., and Rita Lezu of Fort Walton Beach, Fla.; seven grandchildren and eight great-grandchildren. She was preceded in death by her husband, Leon P. Monteleone; one daughter, Karen Monteleone; parents, Joseph and Josephine Varisco Lala; two brothers, Brazil and Sammy Lala; and one grandchild. Visitation will be Saturday at Holy Catholic Church, Hammond, from 8:30 until Mass at 10:30 a.m. Burial will be in Rose Memorial Gardens Cemetery, Hammond. Harry McKneely & Son Funeral Home, Hammond, is in charge. -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- THOMAS C. NICHOLS SR. LORANGER - Thomas C. Nichols Sr. died Tuesday, Dec. 10, 2002. He is survived by his wife, Lynn Schexnayder Nichols; four children, Thomas C. Nichols Jr., Michael, Scott and Nikki Nichols Perret; and seven grandchildren. Visitation will be Saturday at Tharp-Sontheimer-Tharp Funeral Home, Metairie, from 9 until the funeral at 10 a.m. Burial will be in Garden of Memories Cemetery, Metairie. -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- CLAUDE W. TAYLOR SR. FRANKLINTON - Claude W. Taylor Sr., 83, died Wednesday, Dec. 11, 2002. He was a native of Covington. He is survived by his children, Claude, Jr., Billy, Sherwood and Thomas Taylor, Linda T. McMorris, Peggy and Patricia Taylor, Diane T. Cormier and Lucille T. Williams; one brother, Arnold Taylor; two sisters, Hazel T. Cooper and Lanell T. Moffett; 31 grandchildren and 24 great-grandchildren. He was preceded in death by one child, Sidney Taylor. Visitation will be today at E.J. Fielding Funeral Home, Covington, from 6 to 9 p.m. The funeral will be Saturday at 11 a.m. at the funeral home. Burial will be in Fussell Cemetery. -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- EMILY WYRE KENTWOOD - Emily Wyre, 88, died Saturday, Dec. 7, 2002, at Lakeview Regional Medical Center. She is survived by one son, Conrad Wyre Jr. of New Orleans; four daughters, Beatrice Wyre Brumfield, Helen Wyre Robinson, both of Kentwood, Louise Wyre Winters and Norma W. Norah; 41 grandchildren; 93 great-grandchildren and 33 great-great-grandchildren. She was preceded in death by her mother, Ada Jones; her father, Charlie Jones; one son, Charles Edward Wyre; and one daughter, Ola Mae Wyre Burton. Visitation will be Saturday at Sweethome Baptist Church, Kentwood, from 9 until the Rev. Lee Allen Pounds conducts the funeral at 11 a.m. Burial will be in the church cemetery. Richardson Funeral Home, Amite, is in charge. December 15, 2002 * Joseph H. Culotta * Christopher Gerald Holcombe * Gary Joseph Lobue Sr. * Shirley Mae Thomas Mayeaux * Cornellia Tate Miller * Thomas C. Nichols Sr. -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- JOSEPH H. CULOTTA WAYNESBORO, Miss. - Joseph H. "Joey" Culotta, 27, died Saturday, Dec. 14, 2002, at University Medical Center in Jackson, Miss., following an automobile accident in Ridgeland, Miss. He is survived by his parents, John Thomas "Tommy" Culotta and Connie Mallett Culotta of Hammond, formerly of Summit, Miss. Visitation will be at Hartman Funeral Home in McComb, Miss., Monday from 5 to 9 p.m. and Tuesday from 9 to 10:30 a.m. The funeral will be at 11 a.m. The site of the funeral services will be published Monday. -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- CHRISTOPHER GERALD HOLCOMBE Christopher Gerald Holcombe, 26, died Wednesday, Dec. 11, 2002, in an automobile accident in Baton Rouge. A native of Covington and a truck driver, he had lived in Hammond for five years. He is survived by a son, Gage Holcombe; a daughter, Haley Holcombe; his parents, Jesse James Holcombe and Glenda Walden; a brother, Jay Holcombe of Covington; three stepbrothers, Darrin, Jason and Ray Williams; and grandparents Elanor Ruth Brown and George Lewis Sr. Visitation will be at E.J. Fielding Funeral Home, Covington today from noon until the funeral at 2 p.m. Burial will be at Pilgrim's Rest Cemetery. -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- GARY JOSEPH LOBUE SR. HUSSER - Gary Joseph Lobue Sr., 67, died Thursday, Dec. 12, 2002, at North Oaks Medical Center, Hammond. He was a native of New Orleans. He is survived by his wife, Myrtle Fank Lobue of Husser; two daughters, Lisa Ann Lobue Iverson of Terrytown and Kama Marie Lobue of Husser; two sons, Gary Joseph Lobue Jr. of Lafayette and Todd Anthony Lobue of Harvey; a sister, Emily Lobue Lingoni of Marrero; a brother, Vincent Lobue of Barataria; and three grandchildren. He was preceded in death by parents, Rosario and Inez Bourgeois Lobue. Visitation will be at Harry McKneely & Son Funeral Home, Hammond, Monday from 8:30 to 9:40 a.m. The Dominican fathers will conduct the funeral at 10 at Holy Ghost Catholic Church, Hammond. Burial will be at Rose Memorial Cemetery, Hammond. -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- SHIRLEY MAE THOMAS MAYEAUX Shirley Mae Thomas Mayeaux, 71, died Thursday, Dec. 12, 2002, at Hammond Nursing Home. She was a native of New Orleans. She is survived by three daughters, Claudette Chanson of Kenner and Charlene Demola and Carol Merwin, both of Hammond; one son, Louis Mayeaux of San Antonio; one sister, Emily Saltalamatcha of Pasadena, Texas; eight grandchildren and six great-grandchildren. She was preceded in death by her husband, Louis Oscar Mayeaux; her parents, Joseph and Mamie Thomas; two brothers and four sisters. A graveside service will be held at noon Monday at Garden of Memories, Metairie. Geisler Funeral Home, Hammond, is in charge. -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- CORNELLIA TATE MILLER Cornellia Tate Miller, 91, died Thursday, Dec. 12, 2002, at Lallie Kemp Regional Medical Center, Independence. She was a native Osyka, Miss., and a member of Greater Rosehill Missionary Baptist Church, Hammond. She is survived by three daughters, Maggie Williams Harris and Johnnie Mae Stelly, both of Hammond, and Sarah Miller Dumas of St. Louis; two sons, Louis and Joe Miller, both of Hammond; 18 grandchildren, 29 great-grandchildren and six great-great-grandchildren. She was preceded in death by her parents, Callie and Charlie Tate, three sisters and 10 brothers. Visitation will be today at Greater Rosehill Missionary Baptist Church, Hammond, from 4 to 6 p.m. The Rev. Matthew Simms will conduct the funeral at 7 p.m. Also, a service will be held Monday at Shady Grove Missionary Baptist Church, Progress, Miss., at 1 p.m. Burial will be in the church cemetery. Washington Funeral Home, Tylertown, Miss., is in charge. -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- THOMAS C. NICHOLS SR. LORANGER - Thomas C. Nichols Sr., 57, died Tuesday, Dec. 10, 2002 at Baton Rouge General Medical Center. He was a native of Harahan, a carpenter and supervisor for Bailey's Lumber of Baton Rouge and a U.S. Marine veteran of Vietnam. He is survived by his wife, Lynn Schexnayder Nichols; three sons, Thomas C. Jr., Michael and Scott Nichols; one daughter, Nikki Nichols Perret; six brothers, Edward, Burrell, Leonard, Charles Phillip, Huey and Wayne Nichols; six sisters, Agnes Thompkins, Doris Stratton, Jone Graham and Kay James, Judy Dupuy and Rena Sanders; and seven grandchildren. He was preceded in death by his parents, Agnes Zerinque and Edward Nichols; and one brother, Bruce Nichols. The Rev. John Finn conducted Mass Saturday at 1 p.m. at Tharp Sontheimer-Tharp Funeral Home. Burial was in Garden of Memories, Metairie. December 16, 2002 * Mary Liuzza Gennardo, 86, Amite * Robert J. Kluka, 45, Springfield * Michael Brandon Maklary, 24, Folsom * Hazel K. Stewart, 92, Albany -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- MARY LIUZZA GENNARO AMITE - Mary Liuzza Gennaro, 86, died Saturday, Dec. 14, 2002, at North Oaks Rehabilitation Hospital in Hammond. She was a native of Independence. She is survived by one daughter, Josephine Gennaro Capdeboscq of Amite; and two grandchildren. She was preceded in death by her husband, Louis Gennaro, six brothers and two sisters. The Rev. Jack Nutter conducted the funeral today at St. Helena Catholic Church in Amite. Burial was in Colonial Mausoleum, Independence. McKneely Funeral Home, Amite, was in charge. -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- ROBERT J. KLUKA SPRINGFIELD - Robert J. Kluka, 45, died Sunday, Dec. 15, 2002, at his home. He is a native of Springfield. Arrangements are incomplete and will be announced with Harry McKneely & Son Funeral Home, Hammond. -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- MICHAEL BRANDON MAKLARY FOLSOM - Michael Brandon Maklary, 24, died Saturday, Dec. 14, 2002, at Baptist Memorial Hospital, New Orleans. Arrangements are incomplete and will be announced with Geisler Funeral Home, Albany. -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- HAZEL K. STEWART ALBANY - Hazel K. Stewart, 92, Monday, Dec. 16, 2002, at Heritage Manor Nursing Home, Hammond. She was a native of Albany. She is survived by one son, Samuel L. Stewart of St. Amant; two daughters, Nancy S. Adams and Audrey Lee Purvis, both of Albany; 12 grandchildren; 13 great-grandchildren; seven great- great-grandchildren. She was preceded in death by her husband, Emmett E. Stewart; and one son, Emmett Langford "Jim" Stewart. Visitation will be Tuesday at Bethlehem Baptist Church, Albany, from 10 a.m. until the funeral at noon. Burial will be in the church cemetery. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Bethlehem Baptist Church Building Fund, P.O. Box 363, Albany, LA 70711. Geisler Funeral Home, Albany, is in charge. December 17, 2002 * Booker T. Cotton, New Sarpy * Henry Robert Cunningham Sr., 92, Albany * Robert John Kluka Jr., 45, Springfield * Gaston Lanaux Jr., 91, Covington * Michael Brandon Maklary, 24, Folsom * Mamie Aline Smith McAllister, 90, Roseland * Vincent I. Nicolosi, 81, Pasadena, Texas -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- BOOKER T. COTTON NEW SARPY - Booker T. Cotton died Tuesday, Dec. 10, 2002, at Ochsner Hospital in Jefferson. He was a native of Prairieville. He is survived by his wife, Octavia Cotton; eight sisters, Sarah C. Akling, Lacy C. Tillison, Alma C. Ricks, Rosie Cotton, Octavia C. Doville, Mary C. Melton, Stella B. Cotton and Lillian Lear Cotton; seven brothers, Joseph, Esau, Willie, Oliver, Sidney, Potay Jue and Eddie Cotton. The funeral will be Wednesday at St. Matthew Baptist Church, New Sarpy, at 11 a.m. Burial will be in Garden of Memories, Metairie. N.A. James Funeral Home, Hammond, is in charge. -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- HENRY ROBERT CUNNINGHAM SR. ALBANY - Henry Robert Cunningham Sr., 92, died Monday, Dec. 16, 2002, at his home. He was a native of Albany. He is survived by four daughters, Jeanette Fricke of Albany, Norma Burson of Gulfport, Rita Kinchen of Albany and Linda Cunningham of Dallas; two sons, Allen Cunningham of Albany and Henry R. Cunningham Jr. of Holden; two brothers, Homer and Walter, both of Albany; two sisters, Corinne Warnock and Bea Monday, both of Baton Rouge; 15 grandchildren and 25 great-grandchildren. He was preceded in death by his wife, Carrie Eugenia Neal Cunningham; his parents, George William and Mary Jane Addison Cunningham; two sisters, Alice Loftis and Mary Jane Stewart; four brothers, Brady, George,Elmore and Wallace Cunningham; and two grandchildren. Visitation will be today at Harry McKneely & Son Funeral Home, Hammond, from 6 to 9 p.m. and Wednesday from 8 a.m. until the Rev. Alton Foster and the Rev. Joe Dunn conduct the funeral at 11. Burial will be in Bethlehem Baptist Church Cemetery. -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- ROBERT JOHN KLUKA JR. SPRINGFIELD - Robert J. "Hungarian Cowboy" Kluka Jr., 45, died Sunday, Dec. 15, 2002, at his home. He was a native of Springfield and a livestock hauler. He is survived by his mother and stepfather, David and Joyce St. Cyr Hutchinson of Springfield; and three brothers, Frank, David and Phillip Kluka, all of Springfield. He was preceded in death by his father, Robert J. Kluka Sr.; his maternal grandparents, Mr. and Mrs. Eugene St. Cyr; and his paternal grandparents, Mr. and Mrs. Frank M. Kluka. Visitation will be today at Harry McKneely & Son Funeral Home, Hammond, from 6 to 10 p.m. and Wednesday from 8 a.m. until the Rev. Clint Penalber conducts the funeral at 10. Burial will be in St. Margaret Cemetery. -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- GASTON LANAUX JR. COVINGTON - Gaston Lanaux Jr., 91, died Sunday, Dec. 15, 2002, at St. Tammany Parish Hospital, Covington. He was a native of New Orleans and a retired rancher and cattleman. He was manager of Tangipahoa Tung Oil Corp. and owner of Lanaux Ranch. He was also a past member of the Boston Club. He is survived by three sons, Robert W. Lanaux of Hammond, Gaston Lanaux III of Husser and Martin G. Lanaux of Fairhope, Ala.; one daughter, Germaine Lanaux of Baltimore; and 10 grandchildren. Mass was today at St. Dominick's Catholic Church, Husser. Burial was in the church cemetery. E.J. Fielding Funeral Home, Covington, was in charge. -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- MICHAEL BRANDON MAKLARY FOLSOM - Michael Brandon Maklary, 24, died Saturday, Dec. 14, 2002, at Baptist Memorial Hospital, New Orleans. He was a member of Hungarian Presbyterian Church and a student at Nicholls State University where he was a culinary arts student. He was also a member of Theta Xi Greek fraternity. He is survived by his parents, Vivian and Michael Maklary of Folsom; one sister, Nicole Maklary of Folsom; his maternal grandmother, Marie Baham of Folsom; and his paternal grandparents, Kalsie and Elizabeth Picou of Ponchatoula. Visitation will be Wednesday at Hungarian Presbyterian Church, Albany, from noon until the Rev. Vernice Wolf conducts the funeral at 3 p.m. Burial will be in the church cemetery. Geisler Funeral Home, Albany, is in charge. -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- MAMIE ALINE SMITH MCALLISTER ROSELAND - Mamie Aline Smith McAllister, 90, died Wednesday, Dec. 11, 2002. She was a native of Osyka, Miss. She is survived by one son, Robert "Red" Layne Smith of Roseland; two grandchildren and five great-grandchildren. She was preceded in death by one daughter, Lee Woodard Chevis; her mother, Oma Rainwater Smith; and two sisters. A graveside service was held Thursday at Roseland-Arcola Cemetery. -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- VINCENT I. NICOLOSI PASADENA, Texas - Vincent I. Nicolosi, 81, died Dec. 8, 2002. He was a U.S. Army Air Corps veteran of World War II. He was retired from Ethyl Corp. and was a charter member of Knights of Columbus, Council 3700 in Pasadena. He is survived by his wife, Ann Nicolosi; two daughters, Toni Theriot and Renee Demaret; a son, Michael Nicolosi; five sisters, Mary Marchese, Lucy Monistere, Maggie Monistere, Fennie Tallo and Rosie Collura; five grandchildren and one great-grandchild. Mass was held Dec. 10, and burial was in Forest Park Lawndale Cemetery. Colonial Funeral Home, Pasadena, Texas, was in charge. December 18, 2002 * Lemmie Joseph "L.J." Cutrer, 74, Ponchatoula. * Alfred Lamar Cockerham, 68, Independence. * Jessie Lecoq, 77, Baton Rouge. * Alex D. Lucido, 80, Independence. * David Joseph Myers, 59, Ponchatoula. -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- LEMMIE JOSEPH CUTRER PONCHATOULA - Well-known businessman Lemmie Joseph "L.J." Cutrer, who owned and operated Cutrer's Grocery in downtown Ponchatoula for 45 years, died Tuesday, Dec. 17, 2002, at his home. He was 74. He was a lifelong resident of Ponchatoula. A 1945 graduate of Ponchatoula High School, he received his diploma once he returned after serving in the U.S. Navy in World War II from 1943-1944. Cutrer was a member of the Ponchatoula Kiwanis Club and a 38 year member of Oak Knoll Country Club. He played baseball with a semi-pro baseball team out of Victoria, Texas. He is survived by his wife of 52 years, Betty Jo Alexander Cutrer of Ponchatoula; two daughters, Mary Lynn Cutrer Keith of Gulfport, Miss., and Janet Cutrer Bowden of San Antonio, Texas; a son, Timothy Neil Cutrer of Natchez, Miss.; two brothers, Bobby Cutrer of Ponchatoula, and Stanley Cutrer of Beaveron, Ore.; and eight grandchildren; and two great- grandchildren. He was preceded in death by his father, Lemmie L. Cutrer; his mother, Margaret Triche Cutrer; and one grandchild. A memorial Mass will be held Friday at St. Joseph Catholic Church, Ponchatoula, at 10:30 a.m. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the St. Joseph Catholic Church Building Fund. No flowers please. Harry McKneely & Son Funeral Home, Ponchatoula, is in charge. -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- ALFRED LAMAR COCKERHAM INDEPENDENCE - Alfred Lamar Cockerham, 68, died today, Dec. 18, 2002, at North Oaks Medical Center, Hammond. He was a native of Denham Springs. He is survived by his wife, Joanna DeSalvo Cockerham of Independence; daughter, Cynthia Lynn Cockerham Zayak of Independence; two sons, Thomas Lamar Cockerham of Independence, and Kenneth Wayne Cockerham of Watson; his mother, Alberta May Stephenson Cockerham of Tickfaw; one sisters, Geraldine Broussard of Sunset; two brothers, Gerald Cockerham of Ponchatoula, and Jonnie Lee Cockerham of Tickfaw; and four grandchildren. His father, Jonnie Jumeal Cockerham, preceded him in death. Visitation will be at Harry McKneely & Son Funeral Home, Hammond, from 6 to 10 tonight and Friday from 8 until the Rev. E. Rand Guy conducts the funeral at 10 a.m. Burial will be in Colonial Mausoleum. -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- JESSIE LECOQ BATON ROUGE - Jessie Lecoq, 77, died Friday, Dec. 13, 2002, at Methodist Medical Hospital, Houston. She was a native of Lacour. She is survived by her husband, Alfred Lecoq of Baton Rouge; a daughter, Carrie Armstead of Baton Rouge; four sons, Roland Veal and Noland Veal, both of San Diego, Lawrence Johnson of Baton Rouge, and Donald Lecoq of Amite; three brothers, Eugene Landry of Milwaukee, and Matthew Johnson and John Johnson of Rockford, Ill; nine grandchildren and 24 great- grandchildren. She was preceded in death by her father, Matthew Johnson Sr.; mother, Beatrice J. Simmons; and two brothers, Joseph and Alfred Johnson. Visitation will be Thursday at Mount Olive Missionary Baptist Church, Baton Rouge, from 5 until the Rev. Shelton Dixon conducts the funeral at 7 p.m. Dismissal will be Friday at 10 a.m. Burial will be in Port Hudson National Cemetery, Port Hudson. MJR Friendly Service Funeral Home, Denham Springs, is in charge. -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- ALEX D. LUCIDO INDEPENDENCE - Alex D. Lucido, 80, died today, Dec. 18, 2002, in Zachary. He was a native of Independence. Arrangements will be announced with Harry McKneely & Son Funeral Home, Hammond. -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- DAVID JOSEPH MYERS PONCHATOULA - David Joseph Myers, 59, died Wednesday, Dec. 11, 2002, at St. Tammany Hospital, Covington. He was a native of Los Angeles. He is survived by his wife, Deanna Joiner Myers of Ponchatoula; eight daughters, Alicia Cordell of Waldorf, Md.; Dorothy Loveless, Millie Williams, Stella West, Toni Robicheaux, Jennie and Karie Stephens, Ashley Lofton, all of Ponchatoula; two sons, Dixie Penn and Tommy Joiner, both of Ponchatoula; 12 grandchildren; and a great-grandchild. A grandchild preceded him in death. Angelic Funeral Home, Roseland, is in charge. December 19, 2002 * Alfred Lamar Cockerham, 68, Independence * Jacomina Biundo Cucchiara, 92, Walker * Imogene Mulina Brown, 53, Magnolia, Miss. * JoAnn P. Dugas, 57, Hammond * John Edward Grimmer Jr., 65, Denham Springs * Alex D. Lucido, 80, Independence * Debra Mixon McDaniel, 51, Hammond * Idola Scott Parker, 81, Amite * Robert Sigmon, 68, Kenner * Billie Ray Williams, 40, Covington * Minola Williams, 98, Hammond -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- IMOGENE MULINA BROWN MAGNOLIA, Miss. - Imogene Mulina Brown, 53, died Wednesday, Dec. 18, 2002, at Our Lady of the Lake Hospital, Baton Rouge. She was a native of Amite, a homemaker and a member of Central Baptist Church in McComb, Miss. She is survived by her mother, Elma Lou Hayden Mulina of Albany; her husband, John L. Brown of Magnolia; ason, John Daniel "J.D." Brown of Hattiesburg; a brother, David Mulina of Bush; and three sisters, Dianne Moore of Denham Springs, Patricia Mulina of Houston, and Lynette Ivanyisky of Albany. Her father, Stewart Mulina, and a brother, Larry Wayne Mulina, preceded her in death. Visitation will be at Central Baptist Church, McComb, Friday from 5 to 8 p.m., and Saturday from 11 a.m. until the Rev. Mike Everett and the Rev. Tracey Hipps conduct the funeral at 2 p.m. Burial will be in Unity cemetery west of Magnolia. Catchings Funeral Home, McComb, is in charge. -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- ALFRED LAMAR COCKERHAM INDEPENDENCE - Alfred Lamar Cockerham, 68, died Wednesday, Dec. 18, 2002, at North Oaks Medical Center, Hammond. He was a native of Denham Springs. He is survived by his wife, Joanna DeSalvo Cockerham of Independence; daughter, Cynthia Lynn Cockerham Zayak of Independence; two sons, Thomas Lamar Cockerham of Independence and Kenneth Wayne Cockerham of Watson; his mother, Alberta May Stephenson Cockerham of Tickfaw; a sister, Geraldine Broussard of Sunset; two brothers, Gerald Cockerham of Ponchatoula and Jonnie Lee Cockerham of Tickfaw; and four grandchildren. His father, Jonnie Jumeal Cockerham, preceded him in death. Visitation will be at Harry McKneely & Son Funeral Home, Hammond, tonight from 6 to 10, and Friday from 8 until the Rev. E. Rand Guy conducts the funeral at 10 a.m. Burial will be in Colonial Mausoleum. -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- JACOMINA BIUNDO CUCCHIARA WALKER - Jacomina Biundo Cucchiara, 92, died today, Dec. 19, 2002, at North Oaks Rehabilitation Center, Hammond. She was a former resident of Hammond. Arrangements will be announced with Harry McKneely & Son Funeral Home, Hammond. -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- JOANN P. DUGAS JoAnn P. Dugas, 57, died Tuesday, Dec. 17, 2002, at the uptown campus of Memorial Medical Center, New Orleans. She was a native and resident of Hammond and member of Holy Ghost Catholic Church. She is survived by her husband, Randolph Dugas of Hammond; a son, Guy Dugas of Tickfaw; a daughter, Shannon Dugas of Hammond; five grandchildren; and a great-grandchild. She was preceded in death by his parents, Frank Piediscalzo Sr. and Jennie Elizabeth Castiglia Piediscalzo; a sister, Frances Roberts; and two brothers, Joseph Piediscalzo and Anthony Piediscalzo. Visitation will be at Geisler Funeral Home, Hammond, Friday from 8:30 until 9:30 a.m. A graveside service and burial will be at Parklawn Memorial Gardens at 9:45 a.m. -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- JOHN EDWARD GRIMMER JR. DENHAM SPRINGS - John Edward "Jerry" Grimmer Jr., 65, died Tuesday, Dec. 17, 2002, at Baton Rouge General Hospital. He was retired from Dow Chemical and served in the U.S. Air Force. He is survived by his wife, Carol Ann Szanyi Grimmer of Denham Springs; a son, Richard Johnson of Geismar; three daughters, Teri Lynn Grimmer Lavergne of Walker, Andrea Sue Johnson Montgomery of Slidell and Sonya Johnson Giacone of Denham Springs; two brothers, William Harvey Grimmer of Simmsport and Donald R. Grimmer of Livonia; three sisters, Colleen Smith of Livonia, Mary Evelyn Domma of Baton Rouge, and Mona Rae Petronelli of Baker, Texas; and 11 grandchildren. His parents, John Edward Sr. and Mary Evelyn Delatte Grimmer, preceded him in death. Visitation will be at Geisler Funeral Home, Albany, tonight from 6 to 9 and Friday from 10 a.m. until 1:45 p.m. The funeral will be Friday at 2 p.m. at Hungarian Presbyterian Church, Albany. Burial will be in the church cemetery. -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- ALEX D. LUCIDO INDEPENDENCE - Alex D. Lucido, 80, died Wednesday, Dec. 18, 2002, in Zachary. A native and resident of Independence, he was a farmer and U.S. military veteran. He is survived by a sister, Lean Lucido of Independence. His parents, George and Frances Lamarca Lucido, preceded him in death as did a sister, Mary Lucido; and four brothers, Joe, Paul, Vic and George Lucido. The Rev. Paul McDuffey conducted the funeral today at Mater Dolorosa Catholic Church in Independence. Burial was in Colonial Cemetery. Harry McKneely & Son Funeral Home, Hammond, was in charge. -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- DEBRA MIXON MCDANIEL Debra Mixon McDaniel, 51, died Wednesday, Dec. 18, 2002, at North Oaks Medical Center, Hammond. A native of Independence and resident of Hammond, she worked as a phlebotomist for North Oaks Medical Center. She is survived by two daughters, Torri McDaniel of Natalbany and Shelli Buckley of Kentwood; her mother, Bobbie W. Mixon of Amite; a brother, David Mixon of Amite; and two grandchildren. She was preceded in death by her father, Hezzie Mixon; paternal grandparents, Mr. and Mrs. Willie Mixon; and maternal grandparents, Mr. and Mrs. Percy Walker. Visitation will be at McKneely Funeral Home, Amite, tonight from 6 to 9 and Friday from 8 until the Rev. Burnett Thomas, the Rev. Mason Miley and the Rev. Brent King conduct the funeral at 11 a.m. Burial will be in Sharon Cemetery, Amite. -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- IDOLA SCOTT PARKER AMITE - Idola Scott Parker, 81, died Tuesday, Dec. 17, 2002, at Hood Memorial Hospital. She was a native of Wilson and resident of Amite. She is survived by a son, Burnell Parker of Amite; a daughter, Rosa Mary White of Amite; a sister, Essie Mae Scott of Independence; a brother, Frank Williams Jr. of Fluker; nine grandchildren; and 10 great-grandchildren. She was preceded in death by her parents, James and Rosie Lee Scott; her husband, Johnell Parker; a brother, Roger Wisham; and a grandchild. Visitation will be at Richardson Funeral Home, Amite, Friday from 5 to 9 p.m. The Rev. L.V. Baldwin will conduct the funeral at McMichael AME Zion Church Saturday at 1 p.m. Burial will be in Butler Cemetery. -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- ROBERT SIGMON KENNER - Robert "Gene" Sigmon, 68, died Sunday, Dec. 15, 2002. He was a native of Lexington, N.C., and a U.S. Air Force veteran of the Korean War. He retired from the CSX Railroad, served as captain on the Charlotte, N.C. Volunteer Police Department and served as a reserve dispatcher for the Jefferson Levee District. He was also a member of several chapters of the Gold Wing Road Riders and Amateur Radio System. Survivors include his wife, Frances Summers Sigmon; a daughter, Angela Cloutet of Slidell, a son, Tim Sigmon of Kenner; four grandchildren; and one great-grandchild. His parents, Robert Lee and Irene Waller Sigmon, preceded him in death. Visitation will be Saturday at Leitz-Egan Funeral Home, Metairie, from 10 a.m. until the funeral at noon. Burial will be in Garden of Memories. -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- BILLIE RAY WILLIAMS COVINGTON - Billie Ray Williams, 40, died Thursday, Dec. 12, 2002, at Metropolitan Hospice, New Orleans. He is survived by his father, Chalmer Brumfield of Folsom; a son, Christopher Tyson of Covington; a sister, Catherine Travis of Covington; a brother, Donald Ray Williams of Covington. His mother, Verna Williams, preceded him in death. Visitation will be Saturday at Christ Temple Church of Holiness Church, Covington, from 9 to 10 a.m. The funeral will be at 11 a.m. Burial will be in Wilson Cemetery, Covington. N.A. James Funeral Home, Hammond, is in charge. -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- MINOLA WILLIAMS Minola Williams, 98, died Monday, Dec. 16, 2002, at Dixon Medical Center, Denham Springs. She was a native of Grosse Tete and resident of Hammond. She is survived by three daughters, Leona W. Varnado of Hammond, Mary Williams of Oakland, Calif.; and Agnes Williams of Grosse Tete; four sons, James Blanchard of Pomona, Calif.; Earl Williams, of Palmdale, Calif.; Willie Blanchard of Los Angeles; and Wallace Blanchard of Oakland; one brother, Andrew Blanchard of Grosse Tete; and 28 grandchildren. She was preceded in death by her husband, Frank Williams; her parents, Albert and Larencia Blanchard; four brothers, two sisters, two sons and one daughter. N.A. James Funeral Home, Hammond, is in charge. December 20, 2002 * Rose Albritton, 56, Hammond * Jacomina Biundo Cucchiara, 92, Walker * Earvin Cyprian Sr., 72, Tickfaw * Jimmie Dunn Jr., 40, Hammond * Myrtle Marie Cockerham Hutchinson, 68, Springfield * Albert Perry, 85, Wilmer * James Scott Jr., 77, Ponchatoula * Idella Galmon White, 93, Amite * Walter L. Williams Sr. 72, Hammond -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- ROSE ALBRITTON Rose Albritton, 56, died Saturday, Dec. 14, 2002, at her home. She was a native of Hammond, and a homemaker. She is survived by four sons, Richard Cotton Sr., Benjamin, Steven, Calvin and Alvin Cotton, all of Hammond; four sisters, Mary Jackson, Lillie Hampton and Gloria Webber, all of Hammond, and Lois Kelly of Tulsa, Oklahoma; eight brothers, David Ledbetter, Fernwood, Miss.; Ronnie and Donald Ledbetter, both of Hammond; Elijah Ledbetter of San Francisco, Calif.; the Rev. Joseph Ledbetter of Altaseadeto, Calif.; Jerome Ledbetter of Tulsa, Oklahoma; Johnny Smith of Albany; and Arthur Smith of Hammond; and 13 grandchildren. She was preceded in death by her mother, Lillian Ledbetter; father, Matthew Ledbetter; sisters, Myrtis Carter, Shirley McCray, Clotiel Brown and Irene Florist; two brother, William Henry Smith and Victor M. Ledbetter Jr. The Rev. Carl Coleman will conduct the funeral today at First True Love Baptist Church, Ponchatoula, at 7 p.m. Dismissal will be Saturday t 10 a.m. Burial will be in Greenlawn Cemetery, Hammond. Richardson Funeral Home, Hammond, will be in charge. -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- JACOMINA BIUNDO CUCCHIARA WALKER - Jacomina Biundo Cucchiara, 92, died Thursday, Dec. 19, 2002, at North Oaks Rehabilitation Center, Hammond. She was a native and former resident of Hammond. She is survived by four daughter, Carmelite "Connie" DePaula of Hammond, Geraldine Dureau of Bedford, Texas; Mary Flowers and JoAnn Goodrow, both of Walker; one son, Peter Cucchiara of Greensboro, N.C.; one sister, Felicie Genovese of Hammond; 10 grandchildren; and five great-grandchildren. She was preceded in death by her husband, Frank P. Cucchiara; an infant son, Joseph Cucchiara; and two brother, Joseph Biundo and Charles Genovese Sr. Visitation will be Saturday at Holy Ghost Catholic Church, Hammond, from 8:30 until the funeral at 11:30 a.m. Burial will be in Rose Memorial Mausoleum. Harry McKneely & Son Funeral Home, Hammond, is in charge. -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- EARVIN CYPRIAN SR. TICKFAW - Earvin Cyprian Sr., 72, died Tuesday, Dec. 17, 2002, at his home. He was a native of Tickfaw. He is survived by his wife, Audrey Cyprian of Tickfaw; one son, Earvin Cyprian Jr. of Phenix City, Alabama; two daughters, Mira and Victoria Cyprian of Hammond; four sisters, Betsy Rowan and Helen Bezue, both of New Orleans; Elouse Morris of Amite, and Betty Thompson of Decatur, Fla.; one brother, Robert Cyprian of New Orleans; and 12 grandchildren. He was preceded in death by his parents, two sisters, three brothers and one daughter. Visitation will be Sunday at Zion Traveler Missionary Baptist Church from 5 to until the Rev. Wilbard Jones conducts the funeral at 7 p.m. Dismissal will be Monday at noon. burial will be in Noah Cemetery, Uneedus. Richardson Funeral Home, Amite, is in charge. -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- JIMMIE DUNN JR. Jimmie Dunn Jr., 40, died Thursday, Dec. 12, 2002, at North Oaks Medical Center, Hammond. He was a native of Tickfaw, and a carpenter. He is survived by his wife, Vernadean Dunn of Hammond; two daughter, Quastavia Dunn and Patrice William, both of Hammond; one son, Curtis Primus; two sisters, Diane L. Berry and Maebell Jackson, both of Hammond; and three brothers, Frank J. Berry of Springfield, Albert L. Dunn of Buras and Jerry L. Berry of Tickfaw. He was preceded in death by his parents, grandparents and a twin brother. Visitation will be today at Richardson Funeral Home, Hammond, from 6 to 9 p.m. The funeral will be Saturday at Galilee Missionary Baptist Church, Springfield, at 11 a.m. Burial will be in Holly Gardens Cemetery, Hammond. -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- MYRTLE MARIE COCKERHAM HUTCHINSON SPRINGFIELD - Myrtle Marie Cockerham Hutchinson, 68, died Thursday, Dec. 19, 2002, at North Oaks Medical Center, Hammond. She was a native of Springfield. She is survived by her husband, Roy G. Hutchinson of Springfield; one daughter, Reesie Marler Yates of St. Cloud, Fla.; two step-children, Lloyd Hutchinson and Rhonda Mann, both of Holden; one sisters, Rosalie Reine of Baker; three grandchildren; nine great-grandchildren; and one great-great-grandchildren. She was preceded in death by one brother, Clemmons Cockerham; one sister, Dorothy Harrington; one son, Gayden Street and one grandchild. Visitation will be today at Harry McKneely & Son Funeral Home, Ponchatoula, from 6 to 10 p.m., and Saturday from 8 a.m. until the funeral at 10. Burial will be in Carter Cemetery. -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- ALBERT PERRY WILMER - Albert Perry, 85, died Wednesday, December 18, 2002, at Lallie Kemp Regional Medical Center, Independence. He is survived by one sister, Alma Walker of Kentwood. He was preceded in death by his parents and his wife. Visitation will be Sunday at Richardson Funeral Home, Amite, from 5 to 8 p.m. The funeral will be Monday at 11 a.m. Burial will be in Good Hope Cemetery, Kentwood. -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- JAMES SCOTT JR. PONCHATOULA - James Scott Jr., 77, died Sunday, Dec. 15, 2002. He was a native of Woodville, Miss., a retired mechanic and a Mason. He was a member of St. Joseph Baptist Church. He is survived by his daughter, Vera K. Scott Dixon and Beverly Scott, both of Ponchatoula; Mary Joe Scott Carston, Lillie Scott James, Genise Scott Singleton, San Antonio, Texas; Yvonne Scott of Long Beach, Calif.; Elaine Scott Jones of Houston, Jeannie Davis and Carolyn Hunter Owobi of Dayton, Ohio; three sons, James Andrew Scott of Ponchatoula, Robert Earl Scott of Vicksburg, Miss., and Larry Scott of Baton Rouge; three sisters, Mary Toefield and Anita Burnett, both of Independence, and Margaret Washington of Hammond; 31 grandchildren; and 30 great-grandchildren. He was preceded in death by his wife, Irma Lee Scott; step-sister, Lou Ella Jackson; four children, Bridgett Scott, Gary Scott, Betty Scott Neal and Lionel V. Scott; and two grandchildren. Visitation will be today at Richardson Funeral Home, Hammond, from 4 to 6 p.m. The Rev. Clarence Williams will conduct the funeral at St. Joseph Baptist Church, Ponchatoula, at 7 p.m. Dismissal will be Friday at 1 p.m. Burial will be in Holly Garden Cemetery, Hammond. -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- IDELLA GALMON WHITE AMITE - Idella Galmon White, 93, died Friday, Dec. 13, 2002, at her home. She was a native of St. Helena Parish, and a homemaker. She is survived by four daughter, Vivian Johnson of Amite, Marian Stewart, Verta Weaver, Frankie Mobley, all of New Orleans; four sons, Hosea Galmon, Carlford Galmon, Larris Galmon, all of New Orleans, and Glennford of Amite; five sisters, Lena Brisco, Hester Freeman, Irma Lee Mallory, all of Amite; Rodena Edward of New Orleans, and Irma Jean Johnson of California; one brother, Joenathan Spears of New Orleans; 39 grandchildren; 43 great-grandchildren; and 14 great-great-grandchildren. She was preceded in death by her parents, Mary and Alex Spears; sons, Cliford and Roosevelt Galmon; and her first husband, James White; and her second husband, Frank Galmon. Visitation will be today at Angelic Funeral Home, Roseland, from 3 to 9 p.m. The Rev. Larry Lucas Sr. will conduct the funeral Saturday at 11 a.m. at Turner Chapel #2 Church, Roseland. Burial will be in Leonard Chapel Cemetery, Amite. -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- WALTER L. WILLIAMS SR. Walter L. Williams Sr., 72, died Saturday, Dec. 14, 2002, at North Oaks Medical Center, Hammond. He was a native of Houston, retired cement finisher and a member of Greater Rose Hill Missionary Baptist Church. He is survived by his wife, Justine L. Williams of Hammond; three daughter, Hattie Brown of Miami, Fla.; Barbara Williams and Edna Ramsey, both of Hammond; seven sons, Walter Williams Jr. of Miami, Fla.; Roger Williams of Austin, Texas; Joseph and Johnny Ray Williams of Hammond, Carl Wayne Williams of Amory, Miss.; Percy Issac Williams of Lacomb, and Gabriel Williams of Oakland, Calif.; two sisters, June Marie Crawford of Atlanta, Ga.; and Lillie Mae Bradley of Oakdale, La.; 20 grandchildren; and six great-grandchildren. He was preceded in death by his father, Libby Williams; mother, Thelma Williams; brother, Libby Williams Jr.; and one son, Walter Sanders. Visitation will be today at Richardson Funeral Home, Hammond, from 5 to 8 p.m. The Rev. Matthew Sims Sr. will conduct the funeral Saturday at 11 a.m. at Greater Rose Hill Missionary Baptist Church, Hammond. Burial will be in Holly Garden Cemetery, Hammond. December 22, 2002 * Emile Amial Carral, 73, Arcola. * Earvin Cyprian Sr., 72, Tickfaw. * Fochia Mae Dunn, 61, Kentwood. * Hymel G. Falgoust Jr., Hammond. * Guice A. Giambrone Sr., 78, Baton Rouge. * Ian J. Hutzelmann, 10, Ponchatoula. * Sean Kelley LaRocca, 18, Hammond * Vincent Nicolosi, 66, Independence. -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- EMILE AMAIL CARRAL ARCOLA - Emile Amial Carral, 73, died Sunday, Dec. 15, 2002, at Lallie Kemp Regional Medical Center, Independence. He was a native of Holden. He is survived by his wife, Rena Mae Carral of Arcola; four sons, Ronald Carral of Jackson, Miss., Kevin Carral of Baton Rouge, Robert Lee Edwards of Roseland, and Lionell Edwards of Amite; three daughters, Sarah and Phyllis Carral Mason, both of Amite, and Donna Carral of Roseland; three sisters, Mary Phillips of Baton Rouge, Geraldine Wall of Richmond, Calif., and Josephine Wright of Vallejo, Calif.; four brother, Louis and Alfred Carral, both of Madera, Calif.; Kenneth Carral of Richmond, Calif.; and Eddie Lee Carral of Suisun, Calif.; 14 grandchildren; and one great-grandchild. He was preceded in death by his parents, Wilson Amial and Camillia Carral; one sister, Francis Roach; two sons, Aaron Rene Carral and Donald Ray Joseph. The Rev. Bobby Showers conducted the funeral Saturday at Rosevalley Baptist Church, Roseland. Burial was in Mount Canaan Baptist Church Cemetery. Richardson Funeral Home, Amite, was in charge. -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- EARVIN "TOM" CYPRIAN SR. TICKFAW - Earvin "Tom" Cyprian Sr., 72, died Tuesday, Dec. 17, 2002, at his residence. He was a native of Loranger. He is survived by a son, Earvin Cyprian Jr. of Phenix City, Ala.; two daughters, Myra Cyprian and Victoria Cyprian, both of Hammond; four sisters, Betsy Rowan and Helen Bezue of New Orleans, Elouse Morris of Amite and Betty Thompson of Decatur, Fla.; a brother, Robert Cyprian of New Orleans; and 12 grandchildren. He was preceded in death by his parents, two sisters, three brothers and a daughter. Visitation will be Sunday from 5 to 7 p.m. at Zion Traveler Missionary Baptist Church, Independence, followed by the funeral conducted by Pastor Jones. Dismissal will be Monday at noon. Burial will be in Noah Cemetery, Uneedus. Richard Funeral Homes, Amite, is in charge. -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- FOCHIA MAE DUNN KENTWOOD - Fochia Mae Dunn, 61, died Thursday, Dec. 19, 2002, at Hood Memorial Hospital. She is survived by two sons, Darrell McGhee of Baker and Brandy Campbell of Jacksonville, Fla.; two daughters, Antionette Dunn and Arlene Dunn, both of Kentwood; two sisters, Lillie Mae Ponder of New Orleans and Frankie Holloway of Kentwood; and four brothers, the Rev. Alonzo Campbell and James Walker, both of Baton Rouge, Mizell Campbell of Monroe and Willie Frank Gordon of New Orleans; and four grandchildren. She was preceded in death by her parents, two brothers and a sister. Visitation will be today at Orange Grove COGIC, Kentwood, from 5 to 7 p.m., when Supt. Alonza Richardson will conduct the funeral. Dismissal will be Monday at 10 a.m. Burial will be in Orange Grove Cemetery, Kentwood. Richardson Funeral Homes, Amite, is in charge. -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- HYMEL G. "MEL" FALGOUST JR. Hymel G. "Mel" Falgoust Jr., 77, died Friday, Dec. 20, 2002, at North Oaks Medical Center, Hammond. He was a native of Vacharie. He is survived by three daughters, Margaret F. Clinton of Hammond, Barbara F. Mennite and Vanessa Falgoust Cox, both of New York City,; a son, Gregory L. Falgoust of Hammond; and two granddaughters. He was preceded in death by his wife, Juanita Jones Falgoust, his parents, Hymel G. and M. Ray Hargis Falgoust; a sister' and a brother. Visitation will be from Friday from 6 to 9 p.m. at Harry McKneely & Son Funeral Home, Hammond, and Saturday from 10 to 11 a.m. at First Christian Church, Hammond. The funeral will follow and will be conducted by the Revs. Greg Duncan and Bill Day. Burial will be in Greenlawn Mausoleum. In lieu of flowers, donations can be sent to the Southeastern Louisiana University Development Foundation. -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- GUICE A. GIAMBRONE SR. BATON ROUGE - Guice A. Giambrone Sr., 78, died Thursday, Dec. 19, 2002. He was a native of Independence, and served his country in World War II as a corporal in the U.S. Army Air, 9th Air Force and received four battle stars and numerous medals of honor. He was a member of St. Jean Vianney Parish, past Grand Knight of Council 4030 and 4th Degree Knight of the Knights of Columbus. He was a member of the American Legion Post 38, the Veterans of Foreign Wars, the Grandson of Italy, and the American Italian Association. He is survived by his wife, Tanina Migliore fo Natalbany; four children, Guice A. and Steve Giambrone, Carleen Goodson and Alice Madere; two sisters, Francis Currier and Loretta Abene; 11 grandchildren; and four great-grandchildren. He was preceded in death by his parents, Anthony Giambrone and Carleen Piazza; and two granddaughters. Visitation will be Sunday at Rabenhorst Funeral Home East, Baton Rouge, from 4 to 8 p.m. Mass will be Monday at St. George Catholic Church at 1 p.m. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the American Cancer Society. -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- IAN J. HUTZELMANN PONCHATOULA -Ian J. Hutzelmann, 10, died Thursday, Dec. 19, 2002, at Children's Hospital, New Orleans. He was a native of Metairie. He is survived by his parents, Mike and Maria Hutzelmann; grandparents, Karl and Rosemarie Hutzelmann, and Martha and Raymond Baye. He was preceded in death by his grandfather, Joseph Pedalino. Visitation will be Monday at Lamana Panno Fallo Funeral Home, Metairie, from 11 a.m. until the funeral at 1 p.m. Burial will be in Garden of Memories, Metairie. -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- SEAN KELLEY LAROCCA Sean Kelley LaRocca, 18, died Thursday, Dec. 19, 2002, at Lallie Kemp Regional Medical Center, Independence. He was a native of Hammond, and a graduate of Hammond High School. He was a member of New Hope Baptist Church. He is survived by his parents, David and Laura Eberle Wells of Austin, Texas, and Ben LaRocca of Hammond; four brothers, John LaRocca of Marietta, Ga., Laurence LaRocca of Ft. Hood, Texas; David LaRocca and Adrian Wells, both of Austin, Texas; three sisters, Christina LaRocca of Elmhurst, Ill.; Laura LaRocca of Marietta, Ga.; and Cailey Cassanova of Austin, Texas; and his grandparents, Laurence and Kathy Eberle of Amsterdam, N.Y. He was preceded in death by his paternal grandparents. Visitation will be Monday at Harry McKneely & Son Funeral Home, Hammond, from 9 a.m. until the Rev. Tommy Hicks conducts the funeral at 11 a.m. -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- VINCENT NICOLOSI INDEPENDENCE - Vincent Nicolosi, 66, died Friday, Dec. 20, 2002, at Lallie Kemp Regional Medical Center, Independence. He was the owner of Nicolosi's Grocery, Independence. He is survived by his wife, Julia Lavigne Nicolosi of Independence; a daughters, Samantha Sharp of Springfield; a sister, Angie Gros of Independence; two brothers, Frankie Nicolosi and Buddy Louis Rainey, both of Independence; four half-sisters, Juanita Rainey of Olla, Iris Rosher of Deville, Dorris Vamprant of Hazelhurst, Miss., and Judy McLain of Jonesville; three half- brothers, Douglas Rainey of Jonesville, Jerry Rainey of Deville and Barry Rainey of Aimwell; and a grandson. He was preceded in death by his parents, Frank and Bena Nicolosi; and a sister Lucille Lusk. Visitation will be Monday at McKneely Funeral Home, Amite, from 10 a.m. until 2 p.m., when Deacon Mike Agnello will conduct the funeral. Burial will be in Colonial Cemetery, Independence December 23, 2002 * Hymel G. Falgoust Jr., 77, Hammond * Hilda Jones, 49, Springfield * Charline Lemon, 57, Hammond * Gloria Ann Thompson, 63, Hammond -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- HYMEL G. "MEL" FALGOUST JR. Hymel G. "Mel" Falgoust Jr., 77, died Friday, Dec. 20, 2002, at North Oaks Medical Center, Hammond. He was a native of Vacharie and a member of First Christian Church where he served as a deacon, an adult Sunday School teacher, an elder and an elder emeritus. He was a U.S. Navy veteran of World War II and and was stationed on the USS Minneapolis from 1943 until his honorable discharge in 1946. He was a machinist mate first class and received a Good Conduct medal, 10 stars in the Asiatic Pacific and two bronze stars in the Philippine Liberation. He also received a masters degree from Louisiana State University and became one of the first professors in the Southeastern Louisiana University visual arts department where he taught until he retired in 1986. He received a regional and state recognition for his network for his artwork and was a founding member of the Hammond Art Guild. He was also an active member of the Columbia Theatre Players. He is survived by three daughters, Margaret F. Clifton of Hammond, Barbara F. Mennite and Vanessa Falgoust Cox, both of New York City; a son, Gregory L. Falgoust of Hammond; and two granddaughters. He was preceded in death by his wife, Juanita Jones Falgoust, his parents, Hymel G. and M. Ray Hargis Falgoust; a sister and a brother. The Rev. Greg Duncan and Jeff Day conducted the funeral Saturday. Burial was in Greenlawn Mausoleum. Donations may be sent to the Southeastern Louisiana University Development Foundation. -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- HILDA JONES SPRINGFIELD - Hilda Jones, 49, died Friday, Dec. 20, 2002, at her home. She is survived by her daughter, Deborah Jones of Hammond; three sons, David Jones and the Rev. Marshall Jones, both of Springfield, and Darell Jones of Hammond; three brothers, the Rev. Wilbard Jones of Springfield, Bobby Jones Sr. of Hammond and Calvin "Teddy" Jones of Alexandria; two sisters, Wilisa Tillman of Springfield and Emma Veals of Dallas; her paternal grandmother, Emma McCraine; and a granddaughter. She was preceded in death by her parents, Johnny Sr. and Martha Jones; and a brother, Johnny Jones Jr. Visitation will be Thursday at Greater St. James Missionary Baptist Church, Tickfaw, from 5 p.m. until the Rev. Wilbard Jones conducts the funeral at 7. Dismissal will be Friday at 11 a.m., and burial will be in Galilee Church Cemetery, Springfield. MJR Friendly Service Funeral Home, Denham Springs, is in charge. -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- CHARLINE LEMON Charline Lemon, 57, died Wednesday, Dec. 18, 2002, at North Oaks Medical Center, Hammond. She was a native of Tylertown, Miss., and a telephone operator. She is survived by his daughters, Rikkita Sanders and Catina Davis, both of Hammond; one son, Zead Bland Jr., Seattle; one sister, Terry Gaten of Tulsa, Okla.; one brother, Charlie Thomas of Hammond; her mother, Rosia Brown of Hammond; and six grandchildren. She was preceded in death by her father, Willard Hills; one sister, Willene Davis Jones; and one brother, Sam Micelli Jr. Visitation will be today at Richardson Funeral Home, Hammond, from 4 to 8 p.m. Arthur Mixon will conduct the funeral Tuesday at Mixon Holy Cross COGIC, Hammond, at 1 p.m. Burial will be in Holly Garden Cemetery. -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- GLORIA ANN THOMPSON Gloria Ann Thompson, 63, died Saturday, Dec. 21, 2002, at her home.She was a native of Ponchatoula and a member of First Baptist Church, Ponchatoula. She is survived by five sisters, Gertrude Daniels of Madisonville, Grace McLain of New Orleans, Louise Traylor of Pumpkin Center, Claudia T. Castell of Ponchatoula and Margaret T. Blanchard of Hammond; three brothers, Joseph E. Thompson of Clio, Jewel Ray Thompson of Goodbee and Boyd R. Thompson of Livingston. She was preceded in death by her parents, Daniel Preston and Grace McIntyre Thompson; and four brothers, Manson, Oliver, Preston and Ellie Thompson. Visitation will be today at Geisler Funeral Home, Ponchatoula, from 9 a.m. until the funeral at 10. Burial will be in Ponchatoula Cemetery. Geisler Funeral Home, Ponchatoula, is in charge. December 24, 2002 * John E. Birdsong * Hymel G. Falgoust Jr. -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- JOHN E. BIRDSONG OLIVE BRANCH, Miss. - John E. Birdsong, 71, died Sunday, Dec. 22, 2002, at his home. He was a member of Christ Presbyterian Church, Olive Branch, Miss., a retired supervisor for Memphis Housing Authority and a Korean War veteran. He received a Bronze Star and a Purple Heart medal while in the Air Force. He is survived by his wife, Annie Laura Birdsong; one daughter, Letitia Redden of Nesbit, Miss.; three sons, Mike Birdsong of Nashville, Tenn.; Ken Birdsong of Cordova, Tenn.; and Paul Birdsong of Richmond, Va.; and nine grandchildren. The funeral will be Friday at Forest Hill East Funeral Home at 11 a.m. Burial will be in Forest Hill East Cemetery. -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- HYMEL G. FALGOUST JR. Hymel G. "Mel" Falgoust Jr., 77, died Friday, Dec. 20, 2002, at North Oaks Medical Center, Hammond. He was a native of Vacharie and a member of First Christian Church where he served as a deacon, an adult Sunday School teacher, an elder and an elder emeritus. He was a U.S. Navy veteran of World War II and and was stationed on the USS Minneapolis from 1943 until his honorable discharge in 1946. He was a machinist mate first class and received a Good Conduct medal, 10 stars in the Asiatic Pacific and two bronze stars in the Philippine Liberation. He also received a masters degree from Louisiana State University and became one of the first professors in the Southeastern Louisiana University visual arts department where he taught until he retired in 1986. He received regional and state recognition for his artwork and was a founding member of the Hammond Art Guild. He was also an active member of the Columbia Theatre Players. He is survived by three daughters, Margaret F. Clifton of Hammond, Barbara F. Mennite and Vanessa Falgoust Cox, both of New York City; a son, Gregory L. Falgoust of Hammond; and two granddaughters. He was preceded in death by his wife, Juanita Jones Falgoust, his parents, Hymel G. and M. Ray Hargis Falgoust; a sister and a brother. Visitation will be Friday from 6 until 9 p.m. at Harry McKneely & Son Funeral Home, Hammond, and Saturday from 10 a.m. until the funeral at 11 at First Christian Church in Hammond. The Rev. Greg Duncan and Jeff Day will conduct the service. Burial will be in Greenlawn Mausoleum. Donations may be sent to the Southeastern Louisiana University Development Foundation. December 26, 2002 * Mamie Bowman Ball, 85, Hammond * Christine Gugliuzza Bivona, 86, Hammond * Wayne Hilton Childress, 55, Ponchatoula * Phillis Marie Fox, 39, Springfield * Olevia Henderson, 90, Ponchatoula -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- MAMIE BOWMAN BALL Mamie Bowman Ball, 85, died Tuesday, Dec. 24, 2002, at Belle Maison Nursing Home, Hammond. She was a resident of Hammond, a native of Baton Rouge and a member of Millville Baptist Church. She is survived by one son, David Lee Bowman of Bay St. Louis, Miss.; two daughters, Edith Corelie Bowman Pecoraro of New Orleans and Diane Fay Bowman Kersbergen of Hammond; two brothers, Riley and Earley Miller, both of Baton Rouge; 14 grandchildren and 20 great- grandchildren. Visitation will be today at Geisler Funeral Home, Hammond, from 6 to 10 p.m. The funeral will be Friday at 11 a.m. Burial will be in Zion Hill Baptist Church Cemetery, Albany. -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- CHRISTINE GUGLIUZZA BIVONA Christine Gugliuzza Bivona, 86, died Monday, Dec. 23, 2002, at Heritage Manor Nursing Home, Hammond. She was a native and resident of Hammond and was retired from the Tangipahoa Parish School System with 40 years of service in the Hammond area. She was a member of Holy Ghost Catholic Church, Knights of Columbus Ladies, Kappa Kappa Iota and Hammond Lioness Club. She is survived by her husband, Tony Bivona of Hammond; one son, A.J. Bivona of Natalbany; two daughters, Roselyn B. Spano and Chris B. Eleser, both of Hammond; four grandchildren and seven great-grandchildren. She was preceded in death by her parents, Philip and Conchetta Marsiglia Gugliuzza; three brothers, Sam, Joe and Vincent Gugliuzza; and three sisters, Ceny Gueldner, Mary Kimbrough and Rose Macaluso. Visitation will be Friday at Harry McKneely and Son Funeral Home, Hammond, from 6 to 9 p.m. with a vigil prayer service at 7 and Saturday from 9 to 11:30 a.m. until the Dominican Fathers conduct the funeral at Holy Ghost Catholic Church, Hammond, at noon. Burial will be in Rose Memorial Mausoleum. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to St. Thomas Aquinas Scholarship Fund, 14520 Voss Drive, Hammond 70401. -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- WAYNE HILTON CHILDRESS PONCHATOULA - Wayne Hilton Childress, 55, died today, Dec. 26, 2002, at his home. He was a native of Guntersville, Ala., a carpenter and a veteran of the U.S. Marines. He is survived by his wife, Orrie Ruth Session Childress of Ponchatoula; three brothers, Johnny and Arnold Childress, both of Picayune, Miss., and Samuel Childress of Kenner; one sister, Sharon Alphonse of Ponchatoula; and one grandchild. He was preceded in death by his parents, Robert Hilton and Viola Childress; and one son, Gabe Hilton Childress. Visitation will be today at Harry McKneely and Son Funeral Home, Hammond, from 6 to 10 p.m. and Friday from 8 a.m. until the funeral at noon. Burial will be in Parklawn Memorial Gardens, Hammond. -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- PHILLIS MARIE FOX SPRINGFIELD - Phillis Marie Fox, 39, died Sunday, Dec. 22, 2002, at her home. She is survived by her husband, Argustus Fox Jr. of Springfield; one daughter, Lakeaya Gutter of Fort Worth, Texas; two sons, Cedric Gutter Jr. of Fort Worth, Texas, and Cameron Dunn of Springfield; her parents, Alfred Jr. and Earline R. Dunn of Springfield; one sister, Stephanie Smith of Palo Alto, Calif.; two brothers, Donnell Dunn of Hammond and Joseph Pierre of Springfield; and her grandfather, Sindey Randall of Springfield. Visitation will be Friday at Third Zion Baptist Church, Maurepas, from 5 p.m. until the Rev. Robert Smith conducts the funeral at 7. Dismissal will be Saturday at 11 a.m. Burial will be in St. James Cemetery, Springfield. MJR Friendly Service Funeral Home, Inc., Denham Springs, is in charge. -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- OLEVIA HENDERSON PONCHATOULA - Olevia Henderson, 90, died Wednesday, Dec. 18, 2002, at her home. She was a native and resident of Ponchatoula and a homemaker. She is survived by eight daughters, Eldora Mosley, Lucille White, Vera Halley, Inez Henderson and Alberta Henderson, all of Ponchatoula, Oristine McClendon and Yvonne Henderson, both of Hammond, and Rose Addison of Oakland, Calif.; seven sons, Horace Henderson Jr., Brisco Henderson Jr., J.D. Henderson and Ruben Henderson, all of Ponchatoula, Norman Henderson and Daniel Henderson, both of Hammond, and Clarence Henderson of Baton Rouge; 58 grandchildren, 115 great-grandchildren and 50 great-great-grandchildren. Visitation will be Friday at Richardson Funeral Home, Hammond, from 5 to 8 p.m. The Rev. Donnell Henderson will conduct the funeral Saturday at 11 a.m. at First True Love Baptist Church, Ponchatoula. Burial will be in Cooper Cemetery, Robert. December 27, 2002 * Celeste Armond Brown, 79, Loranger. * Lillian A. Carroll, 78, Elmendorf, Texas. * Viola Stephens Corkern, 95, Amite. * Joe Edwards, 74, Moss Point, Miss. * Thelma H. Gatlin, 70, Amite. * James H. Harrell Sr., 90, Hammond. * Watt Mixon, 76, New Orleans. * James Phillips Sr., Albany. * Robert Conley White, 63, Minden. -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- CELESTE ARMOND BROWN LORANGER - Celeste Armond Brown, 79, died Thursday, Dec. 26, 2002, at Belle Maison Nursing Home in Hammond. She was a native of Cotton Port and resident of Loranger. She is survived by her husband, Denver Brown of Loranger; two sons, Thomas Brown of Hammond and David Brown of Loranger; a daughter, Barbara Hanscom of New Glouscester, Maine; seven grandchildren; and five great-grandchildren. Five brothers and her twin sister preceded her in death. Visitation will be at Harry McKneely and Son Funeral Home, Hammond, Monday from 9 until the funeral at 11 a.m. Burial will be in St. Dominic Catholic Church Cemetery, Husser. -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- LILLIAN A. CARROLL ELMENDORF, Texas - Lillian A. Carroll, 78, died Friday, Dec. 20, 2002. She was a native of Ponchatoula and resident of Elmendorf. Survivors include a daughter, Martha Bordelon; two sons, Travis James and Shelby James; a brother, Dudley Hawkins; nine grandchildren; and 10 great-grandchildren. Her parents and grandparents preceded her in death. A memorial service will be held Saturday at 7 p.m. at The Golden Harvest Temple Pentecostal Church in Elmendorf. Mission Park Funeral Chapels South, San Antonio, Texas, is in charge. -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- VIOLA STEPHENS CORKERN AMITE - Viola Stephens Corkern, 95, died Wednesday, Dec. 25, 2002, at Riverside Medical Center. She was a member of Sharon Missionary Baptist Church. Survivors include two sons, J.Q. Corkern of Hammond and Alfred Corkern of Ferriday; six daughters, Vernell Seal, Shirley Holden and Barbara Cox, all of Amite, Margaret Ann Seal of Franklinton, Vicki Loomis of Ferriday and Sue Robertson of Kentwood; 23 grandchildren; 38 great-grandchildren; and 12 great-great-grandchildren. Her husband, John J. Corkern, preceded her in death as did a son; three stepchildren, Wilvie, Denver and J.B. Corkern; and four grandchildren. Visitation will be at Crain Funeral Home, Franklinton, today from 6 to 9 p.m. and Saturday from 8 a.m. until the Rev. Matt Peterson conducts the funeral at 11 a.m. Burial will be in Friendship Baptist Church Cemetery, Amite. -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- JOE EDWARDS MOSS POINT, Miss. - Joe Edwards, 74, died Monday, Dec. 23, 2002, at Singing River Hospital, Pascagoula, Miss. A native of Walnut Grove, he was a U.S. Army veteran and had worked as a millwright. Survivors include his second wife, Christine Clark Edwards of Moss Point, Miss.; four sons, Ronald J. and Randy C. Edwards, both of Ponchatoula, Richard A. Edwards of Romania, and Rodney Dean Edwards of Holden; a brother, Bill Edwards; two sisters, Audie Emmons and Wanda Hastings, both of Ponchatoula; 16 grandchildren; and two great-grandchildren. His first wife, Dean Lawhorn Edwards, and a brother, Bobby Edwards, preceded him in death. Visitation will be at Harry McKneely and Son Funeral Home, Ponchatoula, Saturday from noon until the funeral at 2 p.m. Burial will be in Sand Hill Cemetery. -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- THELMA H. GATLIN AMITE - Thelma H. Gatlin, 70, died Thursday, Dec. 19, 2002, at her home. She was a native and resident of Amite. Survivors include her husband, Shelly Gatlin; three sons, Ive Badon III, Terry Gatlin and Bennie Badon; a daughter, Mary Ann Perkins; four sisters, Margaret Cade, Myrtis Jones, Mary Ann Stewart and Emma Williams; a brother, Alton Harrison; 10 grandchildren and 10 great- grandchildren. Her parents, Alison Harrison and Chaney Harrison; a daughter, Yvonne Badon; four sisters; a brother; and a great-grandchild preceded her in death. Visitation will be at Richardson Funeral Home, Amite, tonight from 5 to 9 p.m. The Rev. Thomas Robinson will conduct the funeral Saturday at 11 a.m. at Church of God Intensive Care in Denham Springs. Burial will be in Harrison Cemetery, Independence. -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- JAMES H. HARRELL SR. James H. Harrell Sr., 90, died Monday, Dec. 23, 2002, at North Oaks Medical Center in Hammond. A native of New Roads, he resided in Hammond and was a retired longshoreman. Survivors include his wife, Laverne Adams of Hammond; a daughter, Charlene W.H. Sanders of Saginaw, Mich.; a son, James H. Harrell Jr. of Hammond; 13 grandchildren; nine great- grandchildren; and 16 great-great grandchildren. Visitation will be at St. James #2 AME Church, Hammond, Saturday from 9 a.m. until the funeral at 11. Burial will be in Holly Gardens Cemetery, Hammond. N.A. James Funeral Home, Hammond, is in charge. -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- WATT MIXON NEW ORLEANS - Watt Mixon, 76, died Saturday, Dec. 21, 2002, at East Jefferson General Hospital. Survivors include six sons, Vernon and Watt Jones, both of New Orleans, Tedora Jones of Los Angeles and Larry, Jerry and Curtis Jones, all of Baton Rouge; two sisters, Leonia M. Beauchamp of New Orleans and Shirley Lott of Kentwood; a brother, Arthur Mixon of Bogalusa; 16 grandchildren; and 10 great-grandchildren. He was preceded in death by his parents, Sam Mixon and Lillie Mixon; two brothers, Johnny Mixon Sr. and Sam Mixon Jr.; and four sisters, Elsia Casimere, Erma R. Woodard, Natha L. Wilson and Bertha Coleman. The Rev. Elton Strickland will conduct the funeral at Spring Creek Baptist Church, Kentwood, Saturday at 1 p.m. Burial will be in Spring Creek Cemetery. Richardson Funeral Home, Amite, is in charge. -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- JAMES PHILLIPS SR. ALBANY - James Phillips Sr., 73, died Friday, Dec. 20, 2002, at his home. He is survived by six daughters, Jeannette Stimage and Dorothy Chester, both of Springfield, Elaine Johnson of Hammond, Jacquelyn P. Watkins and Kalishia Conner, both of Albany, and Eugenia Phillips of Atlanta; a son, Donald Ray Phillips of Atlanta; grandchildren; great- grandchildren; and great-great grandchildren. His wife, Doris Phillips, and two sons, James Phillips Jr. and Randolph Phillips, preceded him in death as did his parents, Thomas Phillips and Lou Ethel White, and three grandchildren. Visitation will be at Rock Zion Baptist Church, Natalbany, today from 5 to 9 p.m. The Rev. Alfred Hart and the Rev. Russell Watkins will conduct the funeral Saturday at 1 p.m. Burial will be in Sweet Home Cemetery, Albany. MJR Friendly Service Funeral Home, Inc., Denham Springs, is in charge. -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- ROBERT CONLEY WHITE MINDEN - Robert Conley White, 63, died Thursday, Dec. 19, 2002, as a result of a traffic accident. A native of Hammond and graduate of Southeastern Louisiana University, Louisiana State University and LSU Law School, he had practiced law in Minden since 1972. At the time of his death, he was serving with the Bossier-Webster Indigent Defender Board as well as maintaining a private law practice in Minden. He was a member of St. John's Episcopal Church. Survivors include a son, Drew White of Minden; a daughter, Julia Springsteen of Rye, N.H.; a brother, Charles White of Ponchatoula; and two grandchildren. His parents, Paul and Inez White of Hammond, preceded him in death. The Rev. Robert Dandridge conducted a memorial service Sunday. Donations may be made to the Webster Educational Endowment Fund, 110 Sibley Rd., Minden, LA 71055 or St. John's Episcopal Church, 1107 Broadway, Minden, LA 71055. December 29, 2002 * Josephine Ciaccio Boudreaux * Buddy Dykes * Marie Eliska Lydiard -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- JOSEPHINE CIACCIO BOUDREAUX KENNER - Josephine Ciaccio Boudreaux, 84, died Wednesday, Dec. 25, 2002, at Doctor's Hospital in Metairie. She was a native of Independence and a resident of Kenner. She is survived by four sons, Joseph Lascala, Elmire Lascala, Marion Ladner and Edward E. Boudreaux Jr.; three daughters, Nancy Milford, Lorraine Albanese and Elaine D'Aquin; one sister, Rosalie Griffin; 12 grandchildren and 18 great-grandchildren. She was preceded in death by her parents, Antonio and Ignazia Ciaccio; her husband Edward E. Boudreaux Sr.; and her brother Charles Ciaccio. Visitation will be today at the Metairie Chapel of Lamana Panno Fallo, 1717 Veterans Blvd., from 6 p.m. until 9 p.m. and Monday from 9 a.m. until the Catholic service begins at 11 a.m. Burial will be in Cypress Grove, New Orleans. -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- BUDDY DYKES KENTWOOD - Buddy Dykes, 52, died Friday, Dec. 27, 2002 at North Oaks Medical Center in Hammond. The former farmer and butcher was a native of Bogalusa and a resident of Kentwood. He is survived by his wife, Betty Edmonds Dykes of Starkville, Miss.; two sons, Charles Dykes of Kentwood and William Dykes of Pinetock, Miss.; two daughters, Vera Dykes of Starkville, Miss., and Victoria Dykes of Columbus, Miss.; one brother, Coy Dykes Jr. of Tangipahoa; five sisters, Evelyn McCallister of Watson, Irene Smith of Magnolia, Miss., Jessie Rae King of Baton Rouge, Linda June Lebo of Lewiston and Janice Jarreau of Erwinville; and one granddaughter. He was preceded in death by his parents, Emma Travis Dykes and Coy Dykes Sr.; three sisters, Tressie Mae Seals, Della Rose Dykes and Emma Nell Dykes; one brother, John Henry Dykes; three infant brothers and one infant sister. Visitation was at McKneely Funeral Home, Kentwood, from 9 a.m. Saturday until religious services conducted by Rev. Otis Hope at 2 p.m. Burial was in Tangipahoa Cemetery in Tangipahoa. -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- MARIE ELISKA LYDIARD COVINGTON - Marie Eliska Lydiard died Friday, Dec. 27, 2002. She was a resident of Covington. She is survived by one daughter, Eliska Lawrence Kopfler; four grandchildren and eight great- grandchildren. She was preceded in death by husbands John F. Lawrence and Charles W. Lydiard and sister Mary F. Morgan. Visitation will be at Tharp, Sontheimer, Tharp Funeral Home in Metairie Monday from 10 a.m. until 12:30 p.m. A funeral mass is scheduled for 1 p.m. at St. Agnes Catholic Church in Jefferson. Burial will be in Greenwood Cemetery in New Orleans. December 30, 2002 * Pecos William Louk, 61, Hammond. * Laura LaMarca Tornatore, 89, Independence. -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- PECOS WILLIAM LOUK Pecos William Louk, 61, died Monday, Dec. 30, 2002, at North Oaks Medical Center, Hammond. He was a native of New Jersey and served in the U.S. Army. Survivors include his wife, Josie Giovingo Louk of Hammond; two sons, Bobby and Butch Louk, both of Hammond; a daughter, Tracy Louk of Hammond; a brother, Leonard Louk of Tampa, Fla.; a sister, Virginia Louk of Alaska; and five grandchildren. Visitation will be at Geisler Funeral Home, Hammond, from 6 to 9 tonight with a service at 7. -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- LAURA LAMARCA TORNATORE INDEPENDENCE - Laura LaMarca Tornatore, an 89-year-old housewife, died Dec. 29, 2002, at Heritage Manor, Mandeville. She was a native of Independence. Survivors include numerous nieces, nephews and great-nieces and great-nephews. Her husband, Peter Tornatore, and her parents, Carolo and Carmella Filapella LaMarca, preceded her in death as did four sisters, Ida Dagro, Frances DiBiase, Josephine Rolek and Lean Ippolito, and four brothers, Ignacius, Pasquale, Tony and Frank LaMarca. Visitation will be at Mater Dolorosa Catholic Church, Independence, Tuesday from 9 until the Rev. Paul McDuffey conducts the funeral at 10:30 a.m. Burial will be in Colonial Mausoleum, Independence. December 31, 2002 * Flora Lee Banks, 67, Ponchatoula. * C. Ray Busby, 76, Hammond. * Clarence Henry Farlow, 75, Ponchatoula. * Myrtis "Myrt" Meyn, 72, Ponchatoula. * Sally Kay Bigham Skeins, 49, Uneedus. -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- FLORA LEE BANKS PONCHATOULA - Flora Lee Banks, 67, died Saturday, Dec. 21, 2002. Survivors include her husband, Homer Lee Banks of Hammond; five daughters, Gloria Harris, Bobbie Ann Banks and Mae Evelyn Cook, all of Orlando, Fla.; five sons, Richard Earl Banks of Milwaukee, Wisconsin; Glen Earl Banks of Mount Hermon, Jerry Banks of Slidell and Tommy James Banks of Virginia, and Lonnie Wayne of Hammond; one sister, Rosa Mae Washington of Crystal Springs, Miss.; two brothers, L.J. Stewart of Pennsylvania, and Joe Stewart; 19 grandchildren; and 14 great-grandchildren. Her mother, Mary Magaline Stewart, preceded her in death as did a brother, Eddie James Stewart; her father, S.W. Stewart; and a sister, Dauphine Jean Stewart. Visitation will be Wednesday from 3 to 7 p.m. at Angelic Funeral Home, Roseland. The Rev. Roosevelt Watson will conduct the funeral Thursday at Straightway COGIC, Ponchatoula. Burial will be in Holly Gardens Cemetery. -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- C. RAY BUSBY C. Ray Busby, 76, died Saturday, Dec. 28, 2002, at his home in Hammond. A graduate of Louisiana State University, he served with the U.S. Navy during World War II and the Korean conflict. He was self-employed with Air Co Welding Supply Co. of Moss Point, Miss., and was a member of United States Power Squad and U.S. Welding Society. Survivors include his wife, Joyce Stevens Busby of Hammond; a son, Charlie Ray "Chuck" Busby Jr. of Eagle River, Alaska; three daughters, Mary Busby Campbell of Singer, Texas; Joel Busby Harris of New Orleans, Rebecca Busby Ourso of Anchorage; three brothers, Don L. Busby of Colfax, John H. Busby of Port St. Lucia, Fla.; and George W. Busby of Orlando, Fla.; five grandchildren; and three great-grandchildren. A private graveside service and burial were today at Oak Grove Cemetery, Bentley. Hixson Brothers in Alexandria was in charge. Memorials may be made to the American Heart Association, 2304 South MacArthur Drive, Suite F., Alexandria, LA 71301. -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- CLARENCE HENRY FARLOW PONCHATOULA - Clarence Henry Farlow, 75, died Sunday, Dec. 29, 2002, North Oaks Medical Center, Hammond. Survivors include his wife, Dot B. Farlow of Ponchatoula; two daughters, Judy Frances LeBlanc and Olivia Lovestry Prevost, both of Ponchatoula; a son, Floyd Elvin Farlow Sr. of Ponchatoula; a brother, Abner Farlow of North Carolina; seven grandchildren; and eight great- grandchildren. His parents, Floyd Jim and Messie Rowell Farlow, preceded him in death as did four brothers, Clyde, Jim, Fleet and Truly Farlow; five sisters, Deelea Dunaway, Tiner Dillon, Lina Peak, Odie Mae Branton and Wita Faye Farlow; a grandchild and a great-grandchild. Visitation will be at Harry McKneely & Son Funeral Home, Ponchatoula, tonight from 6 to 10 and Wednesday from 8 until 10 a.m. Burial will be in Sand Hill Cemetery. -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- MYRTIS MEYN PONCHATOULA - Myrtis "Myrt" Meyn, 72, died today, Dec. 31, 2002, at Belle Maison Nursing Home. Arrangements will be made with Harry McKneely & Son Funeral Home, Ponchatoula. -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- SALLY KAY BIGHAM SKEINS UNEEDUS - Sally Kay Bigham Skeins, 49, died Sunday, Dec. 29, 2002, at St. Tammany Parish Hospital. She was a native of Maben, Miss., and resident of Uneedus. She is survived her husband, Malcolm J. Skeins Jr. of Uneedus; a daughter, Rebecca Drury of Ponchatoula; three sons, Jay Morris, Canute Warren Jr. and Tobay Warren, all of Uneedus; her parents, Ralph and Jo Nickels Bigham of Maben; two sisters, Mary Jo Bailey of Eupora, Miss.; and Becky Morris of Cumbolian, Miss.; three brothers, Terry, Michael and Paul Bigham, all of Maben; 10 grandchildren; and three great-grandchildren. Her brother, Doyle Bigham, and her first husband, Canute Warren Sr., preceded her in death. Visitation will be at Harry McKneely & Son Funeral Home, Hammond, Thursday from 6 to 10 p.m., and at Lee Valley Baptist Church, Uneedus, Friday from 9 a.m. until the Rev. Marvin Wilson conducts the funeral at 11 a.m. Burial will be in the church cemetery.